Lao PDR
ASEAN–OSHNET
Introduction
Since embarking on a new and more open economic
policy in the 1980s, the Lao People’s Democratic
Republic has received foreign investment into its
economy. The changes have reaped infrastructure
development projects and the setting up of factories
and other small enterprises, all of which have created
employment opportunities. However, many workers
lack experience in factory work; their awareness and
understanding of the need for safety and of their right to
have their health protected needs to increase. Employers’
understanding of their responsibilities also needs to
increase. There is a perception that the prevention of
accidents is costly. Thus, a safety culture within many
enterprises needs to be strengthened.
In 2005, the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare,
as the primary OSH regulator in Lao PDR, needed to
introduce OSH legislation and develop the capabilities
of OSH inspectors. But it had to do so on a tight
budget.
National Occupational Safety and
Health Programme 2005–2010
To improve its OSH standards, the Lao Government
recognized the need to stimulate support and efforts
from all stakeholders: the Federation of Trade Unions,