Overview

Antigua’s labour force consists of 30,000 workers out of a total population of 66,422 (July 2000 est.). The major industries are tourism, light manufacturing and construction.  Most of the labour force is in the commerce and services sector (82%), 11% of the labour force is in agriculture and 7% is in industry (1983 figures) ( World Factbook 2000).

The Ministry of Labour (MOL) keeps records of industrial accidents. There are only a few records, as often accidents are not reported. Currently officers are being trained to recognise hazards in the workplace and the MOL is sourcing equipment to deal with these workplace hazards. The MOL has plans to introduce a policy on health and safety in the workplace.

An OSH National Plan was developed but it has not been incorporated into the National Health Plan. OSH training workshops such as the 2nd Caribbean Health & Safety at Work Conference & Exhibition have been held in Antigua (5 & 6 of November 1997). This was organised by Safety Technology Ltd. a Health and Safety Consultancy based in Antigua.

Labour Statistics

Legal Framework

Antigua does not have  specific Occupational Health and Safety Legislation, however Division D of the Labour Code (1975) has some provisions for the Health, Safety and Welfare of Workers. Other pertinent statutes are the Workmen’s Compensation Ordinance 1957, which was amended in 1986  and the Antigua and Barbuda Factories Act 1975.

ILO  OSH conventions ratified by Antigua and Barbuda include:

Related Agencies and Links

Ministry of Labour, Cooperatives and Social Improvement
Administration Building, Queen Elizabeth Highway
St. John's
Tel: (268) 462-0011 or 462-4988; Fax: (268) 462-4988

Antigua Employers' Federation
P.O Box: 298
Factory Road
St. John's
Tel: 1-268-462-0049