Senate passes work safety bill to make employers pay N5million for worker’s death or severe injury

The Senate has passed a bill seeking to cater for the safety, health and welfare of Nigerian workers which would compel employers to pay a fine of N5million or imprisonment of three years to any person killed or who suffers severe injury resulting from a contravention by the employer.
The bill titled the Labour Safety, Health Welfare Bill, seek to protect Nigerian workers from hazards associated with their jobs.
It also provides that employers who are in breach of relevant sections of law will be liable to imprisonment not less than one year or to a fine not less than N500,000.
The bill which was sponsored by Senator Chris Anyawu has already been passed by the House of Representatives.
Another provision of the bill is the protection of pregnant women and nursing mothers against risk in their working place.
Section 31(1) of the bill requires the employer to ensure the adaptation of work to suit a pregnant worker in such a manner as would prevent occupational exposure.
Senate President, David Mark, advised that a conference committee should be set up as soon as possible to harmonise the bill and forward it to the President for his assent.