On November 5, 2026, the Guinean government took a significant step towards enhancing social protection for workers by issuing a decree that outlines the official list of occupational diseases eligible for compensation. The decree, signed by President Mamadi Doumbouya, was made public through a televised address. This new regulatory framework aims to provide clarity on the recognition and compensation of work-related illnesses, ensuring that workers who suffer from such conditions receive the necessary support.
The decree provides a clear definition of occupational diseases and the criteria for their recognition. According to the decree, an occupational disease is defined as any illness contracted during work or directly resulting from its exercise, provided it is listed in the official tables established for this purpose. These tables specify the diseases concerned, the deadlines for care, and the categories of work and exposure conditions likely to cause the listed pathologies.
The decree categorizes 92 occupational diseases into four main groups based on the nature of the risks workers are exposed to. These groups include diseases caused by chemical agents, physical agents, biological agents such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites, and occupational diseases affecting specific organs and bodily functions. This classification aims to better identify work-related pathologies and facilitate their management in accordance with regulatory provisions.
To ensure the regulation remains up-to-date, the decree establishes a National Permanent Commission responsible for reviewing the lists of occupational diseases. This commission, overseen by the ministries responsible for labor and health, will monitor the emergence of new occupational risks, study potential new occupational diseases, and propose additions, modifications, or removals of conditions from the official lists.
The establishment of this decree marks a significant milestone in strengthening social protection for Guinean workers. By providing a clear and updated regulatory framework for the recognition and compensation of occupational diseases, the government aims to improve the consideration of work-related risks and enhance mechanisms for redressing harm suffered by exposed individuals.
The decree repeals all previous contrary provisions, ensuring that the new regulatory framework is comprehensive and effective. This reform is expected to contribute to better management of work-related risks and improved support for workers who suffer from occupational diseases.
The implementation of this decree is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing the social security of Guinean workers, ensuring they receive adequate protection and compensation for work-related illnesses. The government remains committed to continuously improving the regulatory framework to address emerging challenges and risks in the workplace.
Key points
- The decree establishes a list of 92 occupational diseases eligible for compensation.
- A National Permanent Commission will be established to review and update the list of occupational diseases.
- The decree aims to strengthen social protection for Guinean workers and improve mechanisms for redressing harm suffered by those exposed to occupational risks.
