Labour Department to boost inspections

The Labour Department will be increasing inspection visits to workplaces across Barbados as part of a renewed push to improve compliance with labour legislation and strengthen labour-management relations practice.

Acting Chief Labour Officer Wayne Sobers said the initiative will focus on public and private sector entities, and is intended to address growing concerns about non-compliance, lack of awareness, and actions by employers and their agents that run counter to the provisions of labour legislation.

He said labour officers, and safety and health officers are legally allowed to enter and inspect any workplace, request records, and assess the working environment and other conditions of employment to ensure that workers are aware of their rights and responsibilities, and that employers are meeting their obligations under the law.

Under the Labour Department Act, Cap 23, officers may enter and examine premises at any time – day or night – and request the production of documents relating to wages, hours and working conditions.

Sobers noted that while the Department’s role

includes enforcement, its primary focus remains dispute prevention and resolution.

He expressed concern about recent instances where employers failed to cooperate with labour officers during inspection visits, stressing that such actions are offences under the law.

“Employers are required to provide information when requested and to allow officers to carry out their duties. Hindering an inspection not only delays the process but also diverts valuable time and resources,” he added.

Sobers emphasised that while the Department is fully prepared to pursue prosecution, its preference is to foster a culture of compliance through education and engagement and effective social dialogue. (BGIS)

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