Environment Health and Safety Regulations on the Rise in Africa
As a result of increasing opportunities for investment, many companies have decided to open facilities in African countries. Enhesa unveiled its EHS Regulatory and Enforcement Matrix. In order to comprehensively understand the developments and trends of EHS requirements in Africa, consultants analyzed the number of EHS issues regulated, whether there are effective EHS enforcement measures in place, powers of enforcement authorities, and powers of internal EHS positions. It revealed that countries such as Botswana and Kenya lack regulations and enforcement, while Ghana and Morocco have regulations but little enforcement. While South Africa has the strongest regulation and enforcement capabilities amongst African countries; Algeria and Nigeria are not far behind.
Enhesa also highlighted the major trends in the environmental, health and safety and products areas.
Environmental: Experiencing the fastest rate growth, the strengthening environmental framework often results in direct requirements for a facility and fines, shut-downs, and clean-up costs for a non-compliant company.
Health and Safety: Due to a rising awareness of poor labor conditions, health and safety requirements are increasing. Non compliance can result in court cases, punitive damages, and compensation payouts. Countries in Africa will continue to take the first steps to implement requirements of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS).
Products: Product related requirements are being established, albeit at a slower pace. Non-compliance can result in fines, failure to pass customs, and product recalls.
Economic growth will continue throughout Africa providing opportunities for companies to expand and move operations into Africa. A company can expect African countries to strengthen EHS regulatory frameworks, which will differ from the typical U.S. and European approach.