Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2018, published 108th ILC session (2019)

Bolivia (Plurinational State of)

Benzene Convention, 1971 (No. 136) (Ratification: 1977)
Asbestos Convention, 1986 (No. 162) (Ratification: 1990)

In order to provide a comprehensive overview of matters arising in relation to the application of the ratified occupational safety and health (OSH) Conventions, the Committee considers it appropriate to examine the Benzene Convention, 1971 (No. 136), and the Asbestos Convention, 1986 (No. 162) together.

Protection against particular risks

Benzene Convention, 1971 (No. 136)

Article 4 of the Convention. Prohibition of the use of benzene as a solvent or diluent. The Committee notes the Government’s indication in its report that the use of benzene is not prohibited. The Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures, in accordance with Article 4 of the Convention, to prohibit the use of benzene and of products containing benzene as a solvent or diluent, except where the process is carried out in an enclosed system or where there are other equally safe methods of work.

Asbestos Convention, 1986 (No. 162)

Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention. Legislation and consultation. Referring to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Government repeats information in its report concerning general OSH standards to which it referred previously. The Committee notes with concern that the necessary measures have not been taken to bring the legislation into conformity with Article 3 of the Convention. Moreover, with regard to the application of Article 4, the Government provides information on consultations with the social partners concerning the construction sector, but not specifically related to asbestos. The Committee once again strongly urges the Government, in accordance with Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention, to take the necessary legislative measures: (a) to prevent and control health hazards due to occupational exposure to asbestos; (b) to protect workers against such risks; and (c) to consult the most representative organizations of employers and workers concerned with regard to the measures to be taken to give effect to the provisions of the Convention.

Articles 9, 10, 11, 12 and 16. Preventive measures by law or regulation. Prohibition of the use of crocidolite and spraying. Practical measures for prevention and control. The Committee once again requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to ensure the application of Articles 9 and 10 (preventive measures by law or regulation), Article 11 (prohibition of crocidolite), Article 12 (prohibition on spraying) and Article 16 (practical measures for prevention and control) of the Convention.

The Committee is raising other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.

[The Government is asked to reply in full to the present comments in 2019.]