Overview

St. Vincent’s population is approximately 115,461 (July 2000 est.). The labour force is around 67,000 (1984 est.), 26% of which is in agriculture, 17% is in industry and 57% is in services (1980 est.) (World Factbook 2000).

St. Vincent’s economy is based on agriculture (mostly banana production). The tourism industry is gaining prominence, as is, the construction sector.

Occupational accidents are reported to the Labour Department of the Ministry of Agriculture and Labour. Environmental Health officers in the Ministry of Health also play a role in monitoring factory conditions. The St. Vincent National Insurance Scheme (NIS) provides compensation for injured workers.

Provisions for workers’ health have been incorporated into a health sector plan for St. Vincent. Under this health sector plan, there is a proposed establishment of an OSH National Advisory Council. National OSH educational projects have also been designed for St. Vincent with support from PAHO. The NIS and the Ministry of Health have hosted OSH workshops in 1998.

Labour Statistics

Occupational Health and Safety Statistics

Legal Framework

OSH legislation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, include the Factories Act, Chapter 335 (1955), revised edition 1990. This Act has some provisions for the health and safety of workers in factories and other undertakings. There is also the Accidents and Occupational Diseases Act No. 24 of 1952.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines has ratified the following OSH related ILO conventions:

Related Agencies and Links

St. Vincent and the Grenadines Acceptable Conditions at Work: Human Rights Report