(2013-04) Better Work Haiti: 6th Biannual Synthesis Report
Summary — This 6th Biannual Synthesis Report by Better Work Haiti assesses labor compliance in the Haitian garment industry under the HOPE II legislation. It covers findings from factory assessments conducted between October 2012 and February 2013, highlighting areas of non-compliance in core labor standards and national labor law. The report also details advisory and training services provided to factories to improve working conditions and compliance.
Key Findings
- 100% of assessed factories were non-compliant with piece rate minimum wage requirements, with only 16% of experienced workers earning 300 Gourdes/day.
- High non-compliance rates were found in Occupational Safety and Health, particularly regarding machine guards (92% of factories) and onsite medical facilities (100% of factories).
- 71% of factories were late in forwarding workers' and employer's social security contributions to ONA.
- One factory lacked an age verification system, and two factories showed discrimination issues (sexual harassment, pregnancy tests).
- Six factories exceeded the legal overtime limit of 80 hours per trimester, and nine factories failed to provide required breastfeeding breaks.
Full Description
This 6th Biannual Synthesis Report by Better Work Haiti provides a comprehensive overview of labor compliance performance in the Haitian garment industry, specifically under the HOPE II legislation. Based on factory assessments conducted from October 2012 to February 2013, the report identifies persistent non-compliance issues across various areas, including minimum wages, social security contributions, occupational safety and health (OSH), welfare facilities, and working time. It notes that 100% of factories were non-compliant with piece rate minimum wage requirements and 92% with worker protection regarding machine guards.
The report also outlines the advisory services and training initiatives undertaken by Better Work Haiti between August 2012 and February 2013, aimed at building capacity and fostering social dialogue. While improvements were observed in some areas like employment contracts and emergency preparedness, significant challenges remain, particularly in ensuring full compliance with social security payments and providing adequate OSH facilities. The document concludes with next steps, emphasizing continued focus on social protection, medical services, and fire safety, and highlights the program's ongoing efforts to promote sustainable improvements in working conditions and industrial relations.