New rules to boost workplace health and safety

The Government is set to strengthen its occupational health and safety framework, with new regulations aimed at improving workplace monitoring, early intervention and worker support systems.

Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Agni Deo Singh said at the 2026 World Day for Safety and Health at Work at the Civic Centre in Suva this morning that the proposed changes would enhance workplace safety and support systems nationwide.

He said while Fiji’s minimum wage plays a key role in safeguarding basic economic security and promoting dignity for workers, including working mothers, there was still a need to strengthen legal protections to address emerging workplace challenges.

Mr Singh also highlighted the growing importance of addressing psychological and psychosocial health in the workplace, noting that worker wellbeing is directly linked to productivity, safety and organisational success.

“Workplace satisfaction and wellbeing is not an abstract concept; it is a daily reality that affects our safety, productivity and human dignity,” he said.

Mr Singh said recognising psychosocial hazards and addressing them collectively would help create environments where workers can thrive and organisations can prosper.

The Minister also acknowledged the role of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in guiding Fiji’s approach through global standards and conventions, particularly those promoting social dialogue and cooperation between governments, employers and workers.

Mr Singh said Fiji continues to adopt a tripartite approach, bringing together all stakeholders to shape labour laws, workplace policies and occupational health and safety standards.

He said this ensured policies remained balanced, inclusive and responsive to the realities faced by workers and employers.

Mr Singh added that various boards and institutions were working together to strengthen workplace governance and improve safety outcomes nationwide.

He urged participants to take practical lessons back to their workplaces, stressing that meaningful change depends on implementation rather than discussion alone.

Mr Singh called for renewed collective commitment to building safer, healthier and more inclusive workplaces, officially declaring the session open and encouraging stakeholders to turn dialogue into action that protects and values every worker.