THE Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning has significantly intensified workplace safety inspections, conducting more than 6,000 Occupational Safety and Health inspections between 2020 and 2025, with the pace accelerating sharply in 2026.

Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning Keoma Griffith said the ministry has already surpassed its 2026 inspection target of 2,000, recording more than 3,000 Occupational Safety and Health inspections within the first five months of the year.

He said the increased inspections reflect government’s determination to strengthen prevention and ensure that safety standards keep pace with Guyana’s rapid economic transformation.

“What we did in five years, we have already crossed 50 per cent in 2026 alone in terms of inspections,” Minister Griffith said, highlighting the expanded focus on high-risk sectors.

The ministry has also expanded offshore inspections, sector-specific training, workplace engagements and public awareness activities across all ten administrative regions under its “Putting People, Putting Safety First” campaign.

Minister Griffith said the campaign has taken occupational safety education to communities through symposiums and awareness sessions, with the programme expected to continue across every high-risk sector.

The ministry is also reviewing Guyana’s Occupational Safety and Health legislation, policies and wider safety architecture in collaboration with the International Labour Organization, recognising that the country’s existing framework must evolve alongside the diversification of the economy.

Minister Griffith said government is also pursuing dedicated Occupational Safety and Health regulations for the oil and gas sector and will undertake consultations with stakeholders to develop effective standards for workers in the industry.

He noted that employers, supervisors and workers all have responsibilities under the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

This includes the provision of safe equipment, adequate training, proper protective devices and procedures for identifying and controlling workplace hazards.

The minister also stressed that enforcement must be complemented by a strong culture of prevention, particularly as Guyana continues to expand its construction, mining, infrastructure, manufacturing and oil and gas activities.

“Safety is everyone’s business,” he said, underscoring the need for government, employers, workers and regulators to work collectively to prevent accidents and protect lives. (DPI)