There are in addition to these, standards set for the training and supervision of
inexperienced workers, safe access to any work place, prevention of fire and safety
arrangements in case of fire and first aid boxes. Also, the law provides that adequate
arrangements should be made for the removal of dust or fumes from factories, provision
of goggles to protect the eyes in certain processes and the prevention of eating
and drinking in places where poisonous or injurious substances give rise to dust
or fumes. It is mandatory that all accidents and industrial diseases be notified
to the nearest inspector of factories and be investigated; it is prohibited for
the occupier of a factory to make any deductions from the wages of any employee
in respect of anything to be done or provided in pursuance of the Factories Act.
Workmen's Compensation Act: The laws provide for the payment of
compensation to workmen for injuries suffered in the course of their employment.
LABOUR, HEALTH, TRADE & ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS:
National Minimum Wage
Due to inflationary factors, further wage increases have been recommended, and minimum
wages are about =N=5,000 about US$40.00 per month. An employer, defined as someone
employing 50 or more persons, is required to pay the minimum wage, defined as the
total emolument payable to a worker. However, the wage level in the public service
has been substantially increased since the restoration of democracy in 1999.
All employers and trade unions in both the public and private sectors of the economy
are permitted to make adjustments to total remuneration packages through the process
of collective bargaining. The remuneration agreed requires the approval of the Federal
Minister of Employment, Labour and Productivity. Approval will be given where the
increases are moderate, non-inflationary and affordable. The agreed and approved
remuneration will apply from the first day of the calendar month that follows such
agreement. Back-dating of increments is not permitted.
LABOR, HEALTH, TRADE & ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS:
Regulatory Bodies
Standards Organisation of Nigeria
The Nigerian Standards Organisation Act, 1971 was established as an integral part
of the Federal Ministry of Industries, to carry out among other things, the following
functions:-
- to designate, establish and approve standards in respect of meterology, materials, commodities, structures and processes for the certification of products in commerce and industry throughout Nigeria;