Workplace safety non-negotiable – Labour Minister

…as “Putting Safety First” national campaign launches

As Guyana observes Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Month, Labour and Manpower Planning Minister Keoma Griffith, has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring the safety, health and well-being of all workers, while announcing the commencement of a national campaign aimed at strengthening workplace standards. In a message to mark the observance, the Minister emphasised that workplace safety must not be treated as optional. “It is important to understand that this is not a privilege, but rather, it is a standard that must be upheld at all times. Our nation now stands at a pivotal moment in its development. Our economy is expanding, new industries are emerging and opportunities are growing at an unprecedented pace,” he stated. April is recognised as OSH Month in Guyana, with a focus on promoting safer workplaces through awareness, training and compliance. The observance culminates on April 28, internationally recognised as World Day for Safety and Health at Work. The Minister noted that the observance is not merely symbolic, but serves as a critical reminder that worker protection must remain a national priority. “Every worker, regardless of sector or occupation, has a fundamental right to a safe and healthy working environment,” he said.
Highlighting the human impact of unsafe working conditions, he added that the realities of workplace accidents and occupational illnesses continue to affect workers and their families, not only globally, but within communities in Guyana as he believes that behind every incident is a person, a family, a future that is impacted.
He stressed that Guyana’s approach to occupational safety and health must be “proactive, preventative and people-centred.” The Minister further disclosed that Guyana’s 2026 observance aligns with the global focus of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which continues to advocate for safer and more resilient workplaces. “As Guyana moves forward, we remain committed to embracing international best practices and strengthening our systems to meet the demands of a modern and rapidly evolving workforce. In keeping with this commitment, I am pleased to announce the commencement of my Ministry’s national campaign, ‘Putting Safety First,’” he announced.

Behavioural change
According to the Minister, the campaign is designed to go beyond awareness and drive meaningful behavioural change across workplaces nationwide. It will focus on strengthening knowledge, encouraging compliance, and fostering a culture where safety is treated as a shared and non-negotiable responsibility.

He explained that efforts will include inspections, compliance measures, training initiatives and public education programmes, all aimed at improving workplace conditions. However, he stressed that responsibility for safety does not rest solely with the Government.
“Employers must ensure that proper systems, equipment and training are in place to protect their workers. Employees must adhere to established safety protocols and remain vigilant in their daily tasks. Trade unions and workers’ representatives must continue to advocate for safe working conditions and support the enforcement of standards,” he said. The Minister underscored that workplace safety is deeply rooted in culture. “Occupational safety and health are, at its core, about culture. It is about creating environments where safety is not an afterthought, but a fundamental part of how work is done,” he stated. Throughout the month, activities will focus on key areas such as hazard identification and prevention, proper use of protective equipment, workplace training and both physical and mental well-being. Looking ahead to April 28, Guyana will join the international community in observing World Day for Safety and Health at Work, reinforcing the importance of preventing workplace accidents and diseases. The Minister also urged reflection on those affected by workplace incidents, noting that their experiences highlight the importance of continued vigilance, education and enforcement. As Guyana continues to develop, he reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to building a labour sector that is not only productive, but safe and resilient. “I urge all employers, workers and stakeholders to use this month as an opportunity to recommit to the principles of occupational safety and health. Let us work together to strengthen our systems, improve our practices and foster a culture where safety is embedded in every workplace,” he said.