Belize Enacts New Occupational Safety and Health Act

The Government of Belize has enacted the Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2026, repealing the longstanding Factories Act and introducing a new legal framework for workplace safety nationwide.

The law applies to public and private-sector establishments, construction sites, industrial facilities, domestic work environments, and certain remote work arrangements, setting out responsibilities for both employers and workers.

The Act establishes two new bodies: the National Occupational Safety and Health Advisory Committee and the Occupational Safety and Health Inspectorate, which will handle policy development, inspections, and compliance monitoring.

Employers will be required to conduct risk assessments, manage workplace hazards, and strengthen accident and disease reporting systems. Workers gain new protections, including safeguards against reprisals for reporting unsafe conditions and the right to refuse dangerous work when there is a reasonable belief of imminent and serious threat to health or safety.

The law also sets requirements for managing hazardous substances, chemicals, and biological agents, and establishes Safety and Health Committees and Representatives in workplaces.

The Act has been gazetted but will take effect in phases through commencement orders issued by the Minister, allowing time to set up the required institutions before enforcement begins. The Labour Department says it will lead implementation, including standing up the Inspectorate, developing regulations, and running training and public education campaigns.