Work-related injuries and illnesses in Botswana.

In Botswana over 1,000 work-related accidents resulting in more than three days' absence from work are reported annually, including about 60 fatalities. Hardly any work-related diseases are reported, despite suspicion that they are prevalent. An analysis of 498 cases in Gaborone district for the year 2000 indicates that road traffic accidents accounted for about 80% of all work-related fatalities, and that the majority of the victims of fatal accidents were government employees. Most accidents occurred in places of employment not regulated by any legislation enforcing occupational safety and health. There is a need for Botswana to put in place performance-based legislation requiring all employers to identify and control hazards. Employers should be encouraged to implement occupational safety and health management systems to improve their safety performances and enhance productivity.