As an extension to the International Accord for Health and Safety in the Textile and Garment Industry, a new health and safety programme has come into effect from 1st January 2023, tightening up on unsafe working conditions for textile workers in Pakistan.
The Pakistan Accord is a legally binding agreement between IndustriALL and UNI Global Union, and over 180 fashion brands and retailers for an initial term of three years. Signatories of the International Accord for Health and Safety in the Textile and Garment Industry include companies like Adidas, ASOS, Boohoo, Gymshark, Marks & Spencer, John Lewis, and Primark.
This agreement builds on the previous workplace safety improvements made by the Bangladesh Accord. It requires the undertaking of independent safety inspections to address fire, electrical, structural, and boiler hazards. Other requirements include safety committee training, formation of worker safety awareness programmes, introduction of independent complaints mechanisms, and improved transparency.
Joris Oldenziel, Executive Director of the International Accord Foundation said: “We are committed to working closely with Pakistani stakeholders to ensure our collective efforts are beneficial to the industry and its workers.”
Signatories will have to abide by the legal requirements set out by the accord, ensuring that brands and retailers with parts of their supply chain in Pakistan are taking necessary action to prevent health and safety risks for employees.
The program covers more than 500 factories around the Sindh and Punjab provinces, which are at the heart of Pakistan’s lucrative garment and textile manufacturing industry.
