Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 83rd ILC session (1996)

Hygiene (Commerce and Offices) Convention, 1964 (No. 120) - Costa Rica (Ratification: 1966)

In its previous comments, the Committee noted the information supplied by the Government on the application of the Convention and the observations made by the Association of Customs Officers (ASEPA) in communications dated 30 May and 24 November 1994 on the application of the Convention in the country. The Committee noted ASEPA's reference to Executive Decree No. 231116-MP, which provides that by reason of the nature of their work, customs employees are moved to different parts of the country and occasionally work without limit to their working hours; and that, in some cases, they may be exposed to heat, cold, dust, humidity, noise, toxic gases and small and uncomfortable places. They may also be exposed to eye strain, bruises and burns and other risks, including stress.

With reference to the provisions of Convention No. 120, the Committee notes that, under Article 1 of the Convention, the provisions of the Convention are to apply to trading establishments; establishments, institutions and administrative services in which the workers are mainly engaged in office work; and, in so far as they are not subject to national laws or regulations or other arrangements concerning hygiene in industry, mines, transport or agriculture, any departments of other establishments, institutions or administrative services in which departments the workers are mainly engaged in commerce or office work. The Committee also notes that under Article 17, workers shall be protected by appropriate and practicable measures against substances, processes and techniques which are obnoxious, unhealthy or toxic or for any reason harmful.

The communications referred to were transmitted to the Government on 14 July 1994 and 17 January 1995, respectively. The Committee notes a new communication from the ASEPA dated 12 October 1995, which was transmitted to the Government on 17 November 1995. The Committee requests the Government to include in its next report information or comments on the matters raised by the ASEPA with regard to the application of the Convention to customs workers.