Govt shuts down Sable Transport over alleged failure to comply with labour laws

Labour Commissioner, Givens Muntengwa, has taken a decisive action by suspending works at a renowned transportion company, Sable Transport in Makeni, effective October 17.

The decision came as a result of the company’s failure to comply with the provisions outlined in the labour laws of the country which came to light during a follow up integrated labour inspection.

Among the violations the company was found to be non-compliance to the Employment Code Act No. 3 of 2019 as some workers did not have contracts and payslips were not given to them but recieved cash.

The company did not have a registered Human Resource Manager which was in violation of the Zambia Institute of Human Resource Management Act , 2022.

The workers were found to be operating without proper protective equipment, posing potential risks to their health and safety which was a contravention of the Factories Act.

During the inspection on Tuesday, Muntengwa reminded the company that labour laws served as a regulatory frameworks that ensured employers adhere to specific guidelines to protect the rights and welfare of their employees.

“One of the key provisions of the Factories Act is the requirement for employers to provide adequate protective equipment to workers, especially in industries that pose potential hazards or risks,” he said.

Muntengwa said Sable Transport, a renowned transportation company in Makeni, had been found to be in violation of this critical provision.

He said workers had been operating without the necessary protective gear, which had raised concerns among labour authorities.

“The suspension of work is not only a punitive measure but also serves as a wake-up call for Sable Transport to rectify the situation promptly,” Muntengwa said.

He said by doing so, the company can ensure a safe working environment for its employees and comply with the Employment Code Act.

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