The Legal Framework for Occupational Health and Safety in the Manufacturing Sector: Assessing Compliance and Enforcement Mechanisms in Nigeria

Uzochukwu Chukwuka Chinweze 1, Dominic Chukwuemeka Onyejegbu 2,

Martha Uchenna Ogbuke 3, Damina Joshua John 4,

Godswill Owoche Antai 5, & Christian Iheanacho Agboti 6

https://doi.org/10.62271/pjc.16.4.1437.1450

Abstract

Occupational health and safety (OHS) is a crucial aspect of labour regulation, particularly in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, where workplace hazards are prevalent. While Nigeria has enacted various OHS laws, including the Factories Act (2004), Labour Act (2004), and Employee Compensation Act (2010), compliance remains low due to weak enforcement mechanisms, limited employer and worker awareness, economic constraints, and the challenges posed by the informal sector. This article examines the legal framework governing OHS in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, evaluates compliance and enforcement mechanisms, and highlights key challenges and recommendations for improvement. The findings highlight the urgent need for strengthening regulatory agencies, increasing public awareness, providing incentives for compliance, and enforcing stricter legal penalties to bridge the gap between OHS legislation and actual implementation.

Keywords: Occupational health and safety, Manufacturing sector, Compliance, Enforcement mechanisms, Legal framework, Labour regulation, Workplace hazards.