Uzbekistan is in the process of setting new permissible load standards for women when it comes to lifting and transporting heavy loads. The Ministry of Poverty Reduction and Employment, alongside the Ministry of Health, has put forward a draft for public discussion, with the resolution set to be ratified on April 2nd.
Drawing from the Labour Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan, ratified on October 28, 2022, the proposed norms are to be universally applied across all sectors, impacting every ministry, agency, enterprise, and individual engaged in a labour contract. Furthermore, this move has been developed in consultation with key bodies, including the Federation of Trade Unions and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan.
The proposed regulations specify that, when alternating with other tasks, the weight of loads lifted by women should not exceed 9 kg. For continuous lifting throughout a work shift, the limit is set at 6 kg. More detailed stipulations include:
- A limit of 300 kg for the cumulative weight of loads moved from the working surface per hour.
- A limit of 150 kg for loads moved from the floor per hour.
- A shift total of 2500 kg when moved from the working surface.
- A shift total of 1250 kg when moved from the floor.
The draft also establishes specific conditions for collaborative lifting efforts and the use of various carts, with explicit prohibition on the use of stilts.
Particular attention is given to the conditions for pregnant women in the workplace. The draft restricts pregnant women from performing operations that involve lifting above the waist area, using foot pedals, or working in positions that cause undue strain. It limits the weight of loads lifted intermittently to 2.5 kg and continuously throughout a work shift to 1.25 kg. Moreover, it specifies that pregnant women should not move loads heavier than 60 kg per hour from the working surface, and the lifting of such weights from the floor is not permitted.
The ministries state that the proposed changes are part of a comprehensive approach to align with Article 393 of the new Labour Code, with expectations to improve the safety and well-being of women, particularly those who are pregnant, in the workforce.
Gender Equality Reforms
In 2019, Uzbekistan demonstrated its commitment to gender equality with the enactment of the "Guarantees of Equal Rights and Opportunities for Women and Men" law, aimed at eliminating gender-based discrimination and ensuring equality. Narbaeva underscored Uzbekistan's engagement with major international conventions protecting women from discrimination in legal, social, and economic areas. She also highlighted the adoption of the "Strategy for Achieving Gender Equality in Uzbekistan until 2030" as a significant move towards enhancing gender parity and inclusivity in the nation.
Narbaeva stated, 'Our nation has committed to all key international conventions for the protection of women against discrimination in every aspect. The Strategy for Achieving Gender Equality in Uzbekistan until 2030 underscores our dedication to advancing gender equality.'
The Oliy Majlis also reported the introduction of equal pay for equal work provisions in the new Labor Code stands out, ensuring that gender no longer dictates the value of work. This move comes in tandem with Uzbekistan joining the UNDP's "Equal Futures" online platform.
Furthermore, Uzbekistan has lifted restrictions on women's employment in specific industries, broadening opportunities and promoting inclusivity in the workforce. Another major step towards safeguarding women's rights is the comprehensive criminalization of domestic violence, passed in April 2023.
Comments (0)