Occupational Health and Safety law elates ZASAA

By NATION REPORTER

THE Zambia Safety Awards for Excellence (ZASAA) has described the enactment of the Occupational Health and Safety Act No. 16 of 2025 as a landmark step towards improving worker protection and strengthening a culture of safety across all sectors of the economy.

President Hakainde Hichilema has assented to the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Bill No. 17 of 2025, making it into law and marking a major step toward improving workplace safety and health standards across all sectors of the Zambian economy.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has announced that the Bill was assented to on December 23, 2025, and would now be cited as the Occupational Health and Safety Act No. 16 of 2025.Commenting on the development, ZASAA Founder and Patron Hellen Mwamba ZASAA expressed overwhelming joy following the assent of the Occupational Health and Safety Bill into law by President Hakainde Hichilema on December 23, 2025.
The organisation said the new Act is closely aligned with its mission of fostering safer, healthier and more sustainable workplaces for all Zambians.
Ms Mwamba noted that the legislation represents a monumental advancement in occupational health and safety, signalling a renewed national commitment to protecting workers, preventing occupational diseases and prioritising safety in workplaces nationwide.

ZASAA commended the progressive provisions contained in the Act, including the expansion of occupational health services beyond the mining sector, the establishment of workplace health and safety committees with equal employer-employee representation, and the strengthening of enforcement mechanisms through authorised officers.
“These measures are critical in promoting shared responsibility, accountability and compliance with internationally recognised occupational safety and health standards,” she said.
As a national platform dedicated to recognising excellence in workplace safety, Ms Mwamba said the new law strengthens its mission of building a safer Zambia through proactive safety leadership, worker participation and corporate responsibility.
The organisation further stated that it stands ready to collaborate with the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, the Occupational Health and Safety Institute (OHSI), employers, trade unions and other stakeholders to support awareness, implementation and the promotion of best practices under the new Act.
ZASAA reaffirmed its commitment to celebrating and inspiring excellence in workplace safety, contributing to a healthier, safer and more productive Zambia.