Labour Ministry Tightens Enforcement of National Employment Standards

Labour Ministry Tightens Enforcement of National Employment Standards

The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security has launched a series of rigorous, on-the-spot workplace inspections across Bo and Kenema, signaling a strict new policy regarding the enforcement of national labour regulations.

On June 25, 2026, the Commissioner of Labour and Employment, supported by a team of directors, conducted direct assessments of multiple commercial entities to ensure compliance with the Employment Act and the Work Permit Act of 2023.

At the Splash Purified Water Company in Bo, inspectors identified multiple labour law and safety violations. The Commissioner issued an Improvement Notice, citing a failure to implement the national minimum wage of Le1,200 and insufficient workplace safety standards. 

Management was granted a seven-day ultimatum to rectify salary discrepancies and address all occupational health and safety concerns.

The enforcement drive also targeted First Tricon Limited, a construction and civil engineering firm, where the Ministry mandated the submission of all employee contracts for vetting. 

The company was further directed to meet minimum wage requirements, register with the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department, ensure NASSIT compliance, and regularize work permits for all foreign nationals.

Inspections extended to the Dorwaila and Hill Top hotels in Kenema, where the Commissioner emphasized a strategic shift toward proactive enforcement. 

Moving away from a reactive model that relies solely on formal complaints, the Ministry is now taking a direct approach to engage employers, provide immediate guidance, and strictly enforce legal workplace standards across Sierra Leone.