China Boda battery manufacturing factory in Kibaha has been given seven days to improve workplace safety and protect employees from potential health risks after workers were found operating without personal protective equipment (PPE).
Kibaha Municipal Mayor Dr Nicas Mawazo issued the ultimatum during an inspection visit to the factory in Tangini Ward, where he found employees working without the protective gear required under occupational health and safety regulations.
The directive puts the spotlight on workplace safety in the manufacturing sector, particularly industries dealing with raw materials that could expose workers to health hazards if proper precautions are not taken.
Dr Mawazo said the factory must ensure every employee is provided with appropriate protective equipment, taking into account the nature of materials used in battery production.
He gave the management seven days to comply with legal requirements, stressing that employers have a responsibility to protect workers from occupational hazards.
The mayor also raised concerns about heavy smoke from the factory, calling on management to explore ways of resuming production while minimising emissions that could affect surrounding communities.
He said the challenge was to address environmental and public health concerns without unnecessarily undermining employment opportunities for young people in Kibaha.
A prolonged production shutdown, he warned, could deprive many local youths of their jobs, making it necessary for the factory to adopt measures that allow operations to continue safely and responsibly.
China Boda Human Resources Officer Anna Edward acknowledged the concerns raised by the mayor and pledged that management would implement the directives within the seven-day period.
Under occupational health and safety requirements, employers are responsible for providing workers with appropriate personal protective equipment free of charge and ensuring it is worn throughout working hours.
Such equipment must also be replaced when damaged or worn out to maintain effective protection against workplace hazards.
The inspection highlights the need for stronger compliance with workplace safety standards, particularly in industrial facilities where inadequate protection can expose employees to accidents and long-term health complications.