Background and Justification

2. 1. Background and Justification 1.1 : Identification Of Core Problem Although Fiji has not ratified Convention 155 on Occupational Safety And Health it has national legislation in place (Health And Safety At Work Act 1996 ) and a range of Regulations under the Act relating to administration and standards for various sectors and industry groups. The legislation however is closely aligned to and is reflective of the Convention. A tripartite National OHS Board has been established and most enterprises have workplace Health And Safety Committees and/or Officers as required by the legislation. In practice however the minimum standards in the legislation, and the procedures are interpreted by employers as all that they are required to do. In addition OHS issues are addressed in a reactive approach, ie solutions are sought and issues addressed as and when problems arise rather than a proactive approach to educate, raise awareness, and reduce the risks of occupational accidents and diseases from happening. The Fiji Bank And Finance Sector Employees Union views OHS issues as conditions of employment and intends to negotiate these together with OHS Management Policies and to incorporate them as part of our collective agreements. 1.2 : Gender Analysis As approximately 60% of the Union’s membership is female a greater priority of emphasis is to be given to occupational hazards, diseases and ergonomic issues as well as the promotion of safe work practices and the protection of female-specific concerns such as maternity protection, stress and the impact of new technologies. 1.3 : Definition Of Trade Union Strategy The strategy of the Union is to minimise the likelihood of occupational accidents and diseases and enhance the occupational environment for finance sector employees in Fiji. 1.4 : Characteristics Of Target Groups