60253 Workers’ accommodation: processes and standards A guidance note by IFC and the EBRD IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation The EBRD is an international financial institution that supports Contents projects from central Europe to central Asia. Investing primarily EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 in private sector clients whose needs cannot be fully met by INTRODUCTION 2 the market, we foster transition towards open and democratic PART I: PLANNING AND ASSESSING REQUIREMENTS market economies. In all our operations we follow the highest 4 FOR WORKERS’ ACCOMMODATION standards of corporate governance and sustainable development. I. Assessing the need for workers’ accommodation 5 A. Availability of workforce 5 IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, creates opportunity for people to escape poverty and improve their lives. We foster B. Availability of existing housing 5 sustainable economic growth in developing countries by supporting II. Assessing impacts of workers’ 6 accommodation on communities private sector development, mobilising private capital, and providing advisory and risk mitigation services to businesses A. Specific impacts during the construction phase 7 and governments. Our new investments totalled US$ 15 billion B. Community infrastructure 7 in fiscal 2009, helping play a prominent role in addressing C. Community services and facilities 7 the financial crisis. For more information, visit www.ifc.org. D. Local businesses and local employment 7 E. Community health and safety 7 About this guidance note F. Community cohesion 7 This Guidance Note is aimed at providing practical guidance to IFC and EBRD specialists, consultants and clients on the G. Land acquisition and resettlement 7 processes and standards that should be applied to the provision H. Dismantling and reinstatement 7 of workers’ accommodation in relation to projects funded by IFC III. Types of workers’ accommodation 9 or the EBRD. Applying appropriate standards to the construction PART II: STANDARDS FOR AND MANAGEMENT 11 and operation of worker housing falls within the performance OF WORKERS’ ACCOMMODATION requirements on labour and working conditions expected of clients I. Standards for workers’ accommodation 11 by both institutions. The Guidance Note also provides examples A. National/local standards 11 of good practice approaches that businesses have successfully B. General living facilities 11 applied in their operations. IFC and the EBRD have not financed C. Room/dormitory facilities 13 all the projects or companies mentioned in the Note. Some of the information in the Note originates from publicly available sources D. Sanitary and toilet facilities 14 such as company web sites. IFC and the EBRD have not verified E. Canteen, cooking and laundry facilities 14 the accuracy of such information nor the companies’ practices. F. Standards for nutrition and food safety 16 This Guidance Note is not intended to establish policy itself; G. Medical facilities 17 and any issues arising in an IFC- or EBRD-financed project will H. Leisure, social and telecommunication facilities 18 be assessed and addressed in the context of the particular II. Managing workers’ accommodation 18 circumstances of that project. The EBRD and IFC recognise that there are no comprehensive international regulations A. Management and staff 18 relating to workers’ accommodation, and that good and best B. Charging fees for accommodation and services 19 practices are constantly evolving. The EBRD and IFC intend C. Health and safety on site 19 to update this Guidance Note to reflect such developments, D. Security of workers’ accommodation 20 and would welcome feedback and comments from users E. Workers’ rights, rules and regulations to contribute to this process. Comments should be sent to 21 on workers’ accommodation environmentalandsocial@ebrd.com and asksustainability@ifc.org F. Consultation and grievance mechanisms 22 G. Management of community relations 22 ANNEX I: CHECKLIST ON WORKERS’ ACCOMMODATION 24 August 2009 1 Workers’ accommodation: processes and standards Public guidance note by IFC and the EBRD EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This guidance note addresses the processes and required, and if so, whether this can be provided standards that should be applied to the provision of within existing local communities or whether workers’ accommodation in relation to projects funded new facilities should be constructed. The likely by the EBRD or IFC. Applying appropriate standards impact on local communities and the housing to the construction and operation of worker housing market of either option should be assessed. falls within the performance requirements on labour issues expected of clients by both organisations. Before constructing any facilities, other potential impacts should be evaluated. These may include There is a range of different types of workers’ the impact of construction, and the effect of a new accommodation that may be required by various housed labour force on community services, such projects and at different stages within projects, as health, and on community cohesion and safety. including temporary exploration camps, construction These assessments should form part of a project’s camps and permanent dormitories. Specific issues Environmental and Social Impact Assessment. arise in relation to each of these. This note reviews various international, national, private sector and The next step is to consider the standards to be public sector standards and guidance that are applied for the location, arrangement and construction more generally applicable. In some cases clear of any facilities. Issues here include consideration standards or good practice have been identified. of a safe and healthy location, application of In others, we present a range of standards that appropriate construction standards, provision provide some flexibility and adaptability within the of adequate and sanitary living conditions and local context. In these cases, compliance with provision of appropriate leisure and health facilities. at least the minimum standard is expected. There are no universally applicable international Issues for consideration are organised in regulations relating to workers’ accommodation terms of a staged process to be undertaken standards in general. However, there are some in planning, constructing and then operating international standards/guidance on food safety, worker housing facilities. These issues may be water sanitation and waste management that relevant to the direct client or to (sub)contractors should be applied, and national or local building undertaking particular elements of a project, such regulations that must be complied with. as construction or management of facilities. In cases where contractors are used, it is Lastly, when the accommodation has been important to set up appropriate mechanisms and completed, there are issues around its operation and processes (reporting/monitoring) to ensure that management. These include the type of staff who will performance requirements are complied with. manage it, development of appropriate management policies, such as security and grievance procedures, At the initial stage of any project, there is a need and ongoing liaison with local communities. All to assess whether accommodation for workers is such policies should be subject to regular review. 2 IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation INTRODUCTION and potable water; the location of accommodation in relation to the workplace; any health, fire safety This guidance note looks at the provision of housing or other hazards or disturbances and local facilities; or accommodation for workers by employers the provision of first aid and medical facilities; and the issues that arise from the planning, and heating and ventilation. Workers’ freedom construction and management of such facilities. of movement to and from the employer-provided accommodation shall not be unduly restricted. Generally, workers are housed by their employers in cases where, either the number or the type IFC Performance Standard 2 (PS2) aims to promote of workers required cannot be sourced from or “safe and healthy working conditions, and to protect accommodated within local communities. Thus and promote the health of workers.” Arguably this provision of workers’ accommodation is often covers living conditions as well when these are the associated with the importation of an external responsibility of employers. IFC Guidance Note 2 on workforce into an area. This can occur because Labour and Working Conditions specifically mentions the local labour supply or skills base is inadequate, the potential danger of forced labour when housing because the workers are simply not available due to is provided to workers in lieu of payment or where the remote location of the worksite or the particular inappropriate charges for housing are levied. skills required or because labour requirements can only be satisfied by migrant workers due to In some instances, for example during construction the nature of the work or the working conditions. phases of projects, workers will not be directly engaged by the EBRD’s or IFC’s clients, but by Provision of worker housing may relate to a (sub)contractors. However, both the EBRD and IFC temporary phase of a project (for example an require their clients to ensure that non‑employee exploration or construction camp) or may be more permanent (for example a factory dormitory Box 1 - Construction camp built and or plantation camp). Depending on the type of operated by a Chinese contractor accommodation, there are a range of considerations relating to both the living conditions of the workers This example illustrates the different mechanisms themselves, and to the impact that workers’ housing and processes which can be set up in order to facilities may have on surrounding communities. ensure that workers’ accommodation standards The provision of workers’ accommodation is are being implemented by contractors. a frequent component of large-scale projects funded by institutions such as the EBRD or IFC. Antea, a Greek client of the EBRD and IFC, and a subsidiary of Titan Cement Co, has contracted out This note is aimed at providing practical guidance to the construction of a cement factory in Albania to IFC and EBRD specialists, consultants and clients on a Chinese contractor. The construction involves appropriate policies and standards relating to workers’ bringing in 700 migrant workers and housing accommodation. Both the EBRD and IFC apply them in workers’ accommodation. As part of the environmental and social performance standards in contract with the construction company, Antea has relation to their investments that include provisions on included a Code of Conduct and specific language labour and working conditions. The EBRD has included referring to compliance with national labour law, a specific provision in its Environmental and Social ILO conventions and IFC PS2 and has developed a Policy addressing workers’ accommodation; paragraph supervision and monitoring plan (including safety 16 of Performance Requirement 2 (PR2) stipulates: and labour audits) to ensure the construction company is in compliance with all requirements Where a client provides accommodation for workers, stated in PS2, that living conditions in particular the accommodation shall be appropriate for its comply with the guidance provided by the EBRD/ location and be clean, safe and, at a minimum, IFC and that all conditions enhance a safe and meet the basic needs of workers. In particular, the good working and living environment. Safety provision of accommodation shall meet national training courses and integration of best practices legislation and international good practice in relation, in accident prevention have been instigated, but not restricted, to the following: the practice while solid waste and wastewater generated for charging for accommodation; the provision in the camp is managed in accordance with of minimum amounts of space for each worker; Albanian regulations and IFC/EBRD guidelines. provision of sanitary, laundry and cooking facilities August 2009 3 workers, engaged by contractors or other „„ determining the standards to apply to the location intermediaries to work on a project site to perform of facilities, the construction of housing and work related to the core function of the project, are provision of facilities covered by most of the provisions within PS2 and „„ managing accommodation. PR2, including (in the EBRD’s case) paragraph 16 on workers’ accommodation. To this end, clients There are no comprehensive international regulations should set up mechanisms and processes to ensure relating to workers’ accommodation. However, there that contractors and other intermediaries comply are legal and regulatory instruments and guidance with the EBRD’s/IFC’s standards. This should that relate to particular aspects of the provision of involve including contractual covenants related worker housing.1 This guidance note is based on to workers’ accommodation standards, reviewing a review of these instruments and legislation, as contractor agreements, implementing reporting well as guidelines and best practices produced by a mechanisms and monitoring the implementation range of different private and public sector actions of workers’ accommodation standards. at national and international level. As such, the processes and standards cited often represent a A process approach range of acceptable practice. Those correspond to the Benchmark paragraphs under each section. The There are several stages to the process of addressing particular standard to be applied will depend on issues raised by workers’ accommodation. criteria such as the type of project, location, climate These are: and length of project. In all cases at least the „„ assessing whether housing is needed for the minimum standard included in a given range should project and if so, what sort be applied. However, depending on the particular „„ assessing impacts on local communities and circumstances the minimum standard may not always planning mitigation of potential negative impacts be acceptable, in which case the EBRD/IFC will agree „„ awareness of the national and local regulatory an appropriate higher standard with the client, based framework on the environmental and social due diligence. Figure 1: Workers’ accommodation, assessment and management process Need assessment Is there a need for workers’ Assess the availability of the local workforce accommodation? Assess the availability of existing housing Impact assessment What are the expected Determine speci c impacts of the workers’ accommodation construction phase impacts (positive and (including security and involuntary resettlement) negative) on the Assess existing community infrastructures, services and facilities Understand the local business and employment context communities? Give special attention to community health and safety issues and social cohesion Think about the consequences of dismantling and reinstatement Construction Which accommodation Identify and review the international, national, regional and sectoral regulations which standards are needed? address workers’ accommodation Apply mandatory provisions and use non-binding provisions as guidance Apply at least the minimum requirements set out in this guidance note Management What management Design management plans covering health and safety, security, workers’ and communities’ rights systems are required? Appoint the right staff or contract the right companies Implement management plans Set up complaint/grievance and con ict resolution mechanisms (for both workers and communities) Review policies 1. See footnotes under Part I, introductory remark 4 IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation PART I: PLANNING AND ASSESSING REQUIREMENTS FOR WORKERS’ ACCOMMODATION In considering worker housing, it is important to first for both Plantations and for Safety and Health in be aware of the international, national and local Agriculture, and in the ILO Recommendation 115 on regulatory framework. At a general level, several Workers’ Housing (1961) in particular. Although the international instruments recognise a right to an latter is a non-binding recommendation providing adequate standard of housing for everyone or for guidance on policy, legislation and practice to the specific categories of the population as part of State and to the national authorities in charge respecting human rights.2 To ensure the full realisation of housing in particular, it offers useful guidance of this right, binding instruments generally require on what is expected from employers who provide the State to take appropriate steps and measures. housing to their employees, and it specifies a For workers, the recognition of such a right has been number of housing standards (See Box 2). included in ILO Conventions and Recommendations Box 2 - ILO Workers’ Housing Recommendation 115 „„ It is generally not desirable for employers to „„ Housing standards should include special provide housing for their workers directly and attention to the following: employers should use alternatives where possible.  minimum space allocated per person or per If there are no alternatives, specific attention family (floor area; cubic volume; or size and should be paid to renting arrangements, workers’ number of rooms) rights and housing standards. In addition, the  supply of safe water in the workers’ dwelling in possibility of worker-occupants acquiring, for a such quantities as to provide for all personal fair price, ownership of housing provided by the and household uses employer should also be examined.  adequate sewage and garbage disposal systems „„ Renting arrangements should be fair. Adequate  appropriate protection against heat, cold, and decent housing should not cost the worker damp, noise, fire, and disease-carrying animals, more than a reasonable proportion of their income and, in particular, insects and should never include a speculative profit.  adequate sanitary and washing facilities, ventilation, cooking and storage facilities and „„ The employer should be entitled to repossess the natural and artificial lighting accommodation within a reasonable time in the  a minimum degree of privacy both between event of termination of the worker’s contract of individual persons within the household and for employment and the worker should be entitled to the members of the household against undue a reasonable period of continued occupancy disturbance by external factors and/or fair compensation when he ceases to  the suitable separation of rooms devoted to exercise his employment. living purposes from quarters for animals. „„ During the time workers spend in the workers’ „„ Where accommodations are provided for accommodation they should enjoy their single workers or workers separated from their fundamental human rights and freedom of families, additional housing standards should be association in particular. Workers’ accommodation considered: arrangements should not restrict workers’ rights  a separate bed for each worker and freedoms.  separate gender accommodation  adequate sanitary conveniences  common dining rooms, canteens, rest and recreation rooms and health facilities, where not otherwise available in the community. 2. See for example 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 25) 1965 Convention on the elimination of all forms of racial discrimination (Article 5) 1966 International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Article 11.1) 1979 Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (Article 14.2) August 2009 5 At a national or regional level, regulations tend to as it will increase the direct and indirect benefits contain only general provisions requiring employers to the community arising from the project. This to provide a decent standard of accommodation approach is strongly supported by the EBRD and to workers. However, in some jurisdictions there IFC. Any national/local requirements to promote local are detailed regulations or standards setting out a employment opportunities must also be taken into comprehensive framework to be applied.3 There may account. It should be noted that even in the absence also be building regulations relating to issues such of such requirements, new recruitment on EBRD/ as sanitation, safety or building materials that must IFC-financed projects must not be discriminatory. be adhered to. Therefore, national regulations and standards are the first place to look when determining Benchmarks the necessary standards for living facilities. However, 1. There has been an assessment of workers’ responsibility for planning and building standards may availability in the neighbouring communities. well lie with regional or local levels of government, so it is important that these local authorities are 2. There has been an assessment of the skills and consulted. Provisions on workers’ accommodation competencies of the local workforce and how those can also be found in policy, guidelines or codes of skills and competencies fit the project needs. practice adopted by a wide variety of actors such as international bodies, industry associations, national, 3. There has been an assessment of opportunities to regional or local authorities.4 Compliance with national train the local workforce to fulfil the project’s needs. and local law is the basic and essential requirement. Benchmarks B. Availability of existing housing 1. The international/national/local regulatory frameworks on workers’ accommodation have If local workers are unavailable or not sufficiently been reviewed. skilled, the question arises of whether external workers can be accommodated within the existing 2. Identified mandatory provisions on workers’ local housing capacity or whether new facilities accommodation are implemented thoroughly. are needed. In general, the decision to utilise host-community accommodation or to develop on-site accommodation will be based on factors I. Assessing the need for such as whether project development is occurring workers’ accommodation near to larger, established population centres and on the capacity of any nearby communities, Before building and running workers’ quality of housing stock and the capacity of the accommodation, it is important to understand environment to assimilate a new workforce. the local housing and labour markets and the potential effects the building of new facilities If existing capacity is available, in the form, for may have on the surrounding communities. example, of lodging with local families, hotels, hostels or rented housing, the impact on the local A. Availability of workforce communities and housing market should be assessed. Such off-site housing may create a wide range of At the initial scoping phase of a project, it is important economic opportunities such as rental income for to consider whether workers’ accommodation is local people or development of local businesses needed at all. In this respect, it is worth analysing (shops and restaurants for instance), which are the project’s workforce requirements including skills positive project impacts, and may also result in and likely numbers over the project cycle and to improvements to existing housing stock. However, off- assess the capacity of the local population to meet site housing may also be associated with a range of those workforce requirements either from its current adverse social impacts including increased demands base or as a result of training. It is preferable to on infrastructure, services and utilities, development source labour from the local communities as this of illicit trade activities (drugs, prostitution, has many advantages; not only in terms of reducing selling of stolen goods) and inflation in local rent the need for workers’ accommodation, but also and other subsistence items with detrimental 3. See for example: 4. See for example: United States - Occupational Health and Safety Act (Standards 29, paragraph 1910.142) New South Wales, Australia - Accommodation for rural agricultural work, code of practice, 2006 Brazil - Health and safety regulation in the agricultural, livestock farming, forestry and aquaculture Singapore - Code of practice on environmental health, 2005 sectors, 2005 Israel - Guide for Migrant Workers, Housing Malaysia - Workers’ minimum standards of housing and amenities Act, 1990 ILO - Code of Practice, safety and health in forestry work, 1998 South Africa - Basic condition of employment Act, 1997 City of Geraldton-Greenough, Western Australia, Local planning policy - Temporary accommodation New South Wales, Australia - Rural Workers Accommodation Act, 1969 camps, 2006 Western Australia - Construction camp regulations, 1970 Sustainable Agriculture Network Standards, 5.14, 2009. Dubai Municipality - Labour camp specifications (last updated in 2007) 6 IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation consequences for the local population. If a project II. Assessing impacts of workers’ anticipates that the workforce is to be resident accommodation on communities within the local communities it is good practice to provide financing options for local residents to Where the need to provide new workers’ develop and/or improve hostels for instance. accommodation is identified, it is important to consider how this will impact on the surrounding Conversely, to provide on-site housing opportunities communities. This may be relevant both to minimises workforce-host community interactions the construction phase of the camp (or other and reduces the pressure on existing infrastructures accommodation) and during its operation. Risk and can also pre-empt the development of identification and assessments specific to the various external activities such as prostitution. workers’ accommodation should be undertaken as part of the Environmental and Social Impact In some cases, it may be feasible and beneficial Assessment and any related development of to offer workers or certain categories of an Environmental and Social Action Plan. This workers an option between self-accommodation assessment can also be used to determine whether and company-provided accommodation contact between non-local workforce and local with varying compensation accordingly. communities should be encouraged or minimised. To avoid or mitigate the most negative impacts, it is important to conduct a comprehensive assessment Box 3 - Singapore National Environment Agency - of the housing market and the likely impact of the Code of Practice on Environmental Health, 2005 various options for workers’ accommodation. For larger projects, this assessment will best be done The following guidelines shall be used at the stage of the Environmental and Social Impact for stand-alone dormitories. Assessment (ESIA). Measures resulting from this „„ If the dormitory does not provide a separate assessment will need to be incorporated in tendering space for cupboards/locker rooms, the minimum and contracting documentation. Furthermore, in room space shall be 4 square metres per person cases where local facilities are utilised, potential (assuming a height of 2.4m). mitigation measures for adverse impacts such as „„ If the dormitory provides a separate space for increased inflationary rates on local costs must be cupboards/locker rooms, the minimum room assessed in the ESIA, and procedures that will be space shall be 3 square metres per person implemented to monitor this must also be presented. (assuming a height of 2.4m). „„ The room shall be adequately ventilated and lit. Benchmarks „„ Adequate number of toilets and sanitary fittings 1. Prior to building any workers’ accommodation, shall be provided (1 toilet, 1 hand wash basin, 1 a comprehensive assessment of the local housing urinal and 1 bathroom with bench per 15 male market has been conducted and the different types workers). of housing available in the surrounding communities „„ Where cooking area is to be provided in have been identified. For larger projects this the dormitories, such provisions shall be in assessment has been conducted at the stage of the accordance with the requirements stipulated project’s Environmental and Social Impact Assessment. under Section 2.4 of the latest edition of Singapore Standard CP 102. 2. There has been an assessment on communities of The above Singapore guidelines are mentioned as the impact of using existing housing opportunities. an example of “soft” regulations only. The standards described above may be inappropriate in different 3. Measures to mitigate adverse impacts on the local environments. Other standards apply in other countries. housing market have been identified and included in the Environmental and Social Action Plan (ESAP) or other relevant action plan. August 2009 7 A. Specific impacts during the D. Local businesses and local employment construction phase Local businesses such as shops, restaurants or The construction of workers’ accommodation and bars are likely to benefit from their proximity to its potential impacts on communities should be workers’ living facilities. However, there may also managed in the same way as for construction of be negative issues that need to be managed such the project itself. Impacts need to be identified as increases in local prices, crime, prostitution or and may include health and safety, disturbance alcohol consumption (see below Part II, section E). issues arising from construction, including traffic (dust, noise and vibration), and involuntary E. Community health and safety resettlement issues (including physical and economical displacement) when the erecting of The presence of a large number of workers, principally workers’ accommodation entails land acquisition. males, can give rise to an increased spread of communicable diseases such as HIV/AIDS in B. Community infrastructure particular and other sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, special attention should be paid to Workers’ influx in the vicinity of a community may risks such as road accidents, and other detrimental strain existing infrastructure, in particular the consequences of increased traffic generated by the water and sanitation, electricity and transport project (dust, noise, and pollution). If the proposed systems. Impacts of the worker facility should project has major-accident hazards associated with be avoided or mitigated, and included within it, emergency response and evacuation plans in the assessment of the overall project. accordance to PS4/PR4 will also need to be in place. In general, where facilities are developed close to F. Community cohesion local communities it is important to provide adequate transport systems to preserve the right of workers’ The impact of the presence of workers with different freedom of movement if they are not to become lifestyles or cultural backgrounds on the host effectively “trapped”. This should be balanced against community needs to be assessed and managed, in the need to prevent any unecessary disruption of particular issues such as religious or other cultural and/or to the local communities. Therefore it may proscriptions, local traditions and community structure be appropriate to limit worker movements, but any and the relationship between men and women. restriction should be clearly justified by the need to avoid the disruption of local communities, in particular G. Land acquisition and resettlement local communities’ transport infrastructures – and to provide maximum security and safety to both Impacts and mitigation plans relating to land workers and communities (see PART II, Section used for workers’ accommodation facilities E “Workers’ rights, rules and regulations on should be managed in the same way as for the workers’ accommodation”, below at page 21). project as a whole. As far as possible, land acquisition should be avoided or minimised. C. Community services and facilities H. Dismantling and reinstatement Depending on the size of the workers’ accommodation, conditions of engagement (accompanied or Dismantling and reinstatement of workers’ unaccompanied) and the level of services offered accommodation should be taken into account to those workers, it may be necessary to assess at the outset of the project in order to avoid any the impact of workers on local medical, social, unnecessary lasting impacts of the accommodations educational and recreational services and facilities, on the communities (land use for instance). potentially to the detriment of nearby communities. Where possible and appropriate, the facilities It must be ensured that such services and facilities can be handed over to the communities. can meet increased demand. If not, services must be available to the workers on site. 8 IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation Benchmarks services and facilities have been included in the 1. A community impact assessment has been assessment, including specific attention to emergency carried out as part of the Environmental and Social responses and evacuation plans. Assessment of the overall project with a view to mitigate the negative impacts of the workers’ 4. Impacts of workers’ accommodation on community accommodation on the surrounding communities and local businesses and local employment have been to enhance the positive ones. included in the assessment. 2. The assessment includes potential health and 5. General impacts of workers’ accommodation on safety impacts on the communities - including the health of communities (notably the increased risk disturbances and safety issues caused by traffic of road accidents and the increase of communicable (dust, noise, vibration, road accidents, disease) and diseases) and community social cohesion have been consequences of land acquisition and involuntary included in the assessment. resettlement occurring during the construction phase of the workers’ accommodation. 6. The assessment includes appropriate mitigation measures to address any adverse impacts identified. 3. Positive and negative impacts of workers’ accommodation on community infrastructures, Table 1: A typology of workers’ accommodation Category Subcategory/examples Common characteristics Sectors covered Key issues Rural workers’ Logging camp Permanent or seasonal Forestry Worker access accommodation Off-farm accommodation Remote Agriculture Monitoring difficulties Plantation housing Worker village Permanent and long term Agriculture Need to provide sustainable livelihoods Off-farm accommodation Families Social infrastructures Living conditions Construction camp Worker camp Temporary Extractives Enforcement of standards and monitoring difficulties Worker village Migrant workers Utilities Relations with the Mobile worker camp Gender separation Infrastructure communities Manufacturing Living standards Cost Mine camp Company towns Long term Extractives Relations with communities Dormitories Remote location Remoteness Integrated within Gender separation Living standards existing communities Worker access Commuter (fly-in, fly-out) Long shifts No rest periods Factory dormitory Permanent Garments/textiles Space Urban Manufacturing – Privacy toys, electronics Internal migrants Living standards Deduction of excessive rent from wages August 2009 9 III. Types of workers’ accommodation of project phases for example, exploration (fly‑in, fly-out camps), construction (temporary There is a large variety of workers’ living facilities. construction camp often with large proportion These may be classified in a number of ways. of migrant workers) and operational (permanent, Table 1 provides one typology. Key criteria may dormitory, possible family accommodation). include whether the facilities are temporary or permanent, their location (remote or non-remote), Depending on the type of project, specific attention size, or economic sector (agriculture, mining, should be given to either providing single workers’ oil and gas, construction, manufacturing). accommodation or family accommodation. As a general rule, the more permanent the housing, The typology above is given as an example the greater considerations should be given to only; other classifications are possible. For enabling workers to live with their families. Such instance, housing may be categorised in terms consideration is important where the workforce is Box 4 - Best practice on home-ownership When access to property schemes is proposed including employer support, economies of scale, it is important to guarantee the sustainability of low interest rate and stepped payment options. workers’ investments. To this end, the location of the project and of the workers’ accommodation Affordable housing in a self-sustaining community: and their integration in existing communities An FMO (Netherlands Development Finance are factors to take into consideration. Caution Company) client operating a mine in a remote should be exercised when offering such schemes location intends to manage and develop a well- in remote locations as it might be impossible to planned, secure and independent village for create a sustainable community and to develop approximately 1,000 employees. The FMO client is non-project-related sources of livelihood. expected to provide residents with basic services, including water, electricity and sewerage as well as Affordable housing in a sustainable town: A provider education, health services, sports facilities, shops, of affordable housing in South Africa and a provider green areas and places of worship. In addition, of housing development for the mining sector worked provision has been made for a light industrial and together on a project to move away from mining small business area to support local business hostels and rental villages to providing home- development. The long-term vision is for the Village ownership opportunities to workers. To this end they to grow into a self-sustaining community of over developed a 400-plus unit in a village 20 km from 4,000 houses, which is capable of supporting a the mine with the idea to create an economically variety of small businesses and local enterprises. and socially viable community close to the mine. To support the long-term vision of a self-sustaining A concern was to integrate people within existing village and to provide mine employees with an communities with the necessary social amenities opportunity to build up cash equity (in the form and infrastructures and to put the emphasis on of a house), the FMO client will promote home better housing conditions, home ownership and ownership. In this context, an employee housing affordable housing for mining workers. The success scheme has been designed that allows mine of the project relied on the ability for the service employees in all income categories to acquire title provider to take into account the often difficult to property through mortgage debt all associated financial situation of workers. To overcome over- rights and obligations. Participation in the scheme indebtedness of workers, specific access to property is not a prerequisite for employment. The scheme schemes and programmes have been designed includes several provisions to ensure affordability of home ownership to all mine employees and to protect employees against downside risks. 10 IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation not sourced locally and in particular where migrant Box 5 - Best practice on migrant workers’ workers are used.5 Provision for families will affect accommodation: Business in the Community - the other facilities necessary and the management Voluntary Code of Practice on Employing Migrant of the accommodation. Best practice includes: Workers/Overseas Staff in Great Britain6 „„ To provide workers and their families individual The Code, which is designed to guide and reinforce family accommodation comprising bedrooms, best practice in relation to the employment of sanitary and cooking facilities with an adequate migrant workers, points out that migrant workers level of privacy allowing families to have a normal will often have to travel long distances and be in family life. need of accommodation when they take up a job. Consequently, the Code suggests the following. „„ To provide nurseries, schools, clinics and recreational facilities for children, or to make sure „„ Employers should assist with travel costs that those services are readily available in the incurred by migrant workers during the surrounding communities and of good quality. recruitment stage and the repayment of these costs should follow a clear process and the Benchmarks money paid back at an agreed affordable rate 1. Consideration has been given to provision of family over a specified time period. The total amount accommodation. repayable should be no more than that lent so that workers are not financially disadvantaged. 2. When arrangements for family accommodations are in place: „„ Employers, where possible, should  families are provided with individual support migrant workers in finding suitable accommodation comprising bedroom, sanitary accommodation. Workers should not be required and cooking facilities to stay in accommodation provided by the  adequate nursery/school facilities are provided employer but should be free to choose their  special attention is paid to providing adequate own if they wish to do so. Where employers do safety for children. provide accommodation, they should ensure that they do not breach the rules relating to the apportionment of wages for payment for accommodation (the accommodation offset Additional issue rules). In projects located in rural and remote locations, „„ Employers should help to ensure that, where issues around the question of how workers workers obtain their own accommodation, they can travel to their communities/countries of are not being exploited, and offer advice and origin might arise. Alternatively, the possibility help if requested. to create a sustainable community and to bring in the workers’ families might be considered. „„ Employers should ensure that accommodation which is provided is not overcrowded and does not pose a risk to the health and safety of those living there, and that any agreed notice periods are observed. 5. On the increase in the recognition of workers’ rights to family life, the ILO Migrant Workers Convention 6. www.bitc.org.uk/resources/publications/migrant_workers_1.html No 143 calls Member States to take all necessary measures which fall within its competence and collaborate with other Members to facilitate the reunion of the families of all migrant workers legally residing in its territory. In the same way, Art 44-2 of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families requires States Parties to take measures that they deem appropriate and that fall within their competence to facilitate the reunion of migrant workers with their spouses […]as well as with their minor dependent unmarried children. August 2009 11 PART II: STANDARDS FOR AND MANAGEMENT OF WORKERS’ ACCOMMODATION I. Standards for workers’ Benchmark accommodation 1. The relevant national and local regulations have been identified and implemented. This section looks at the principles and standards applicable to the location and construction of workers’ accommodation, including the transport B. General living facilities systems provided, the general living facilities, rooms/dormitories facilities, sanitary facilities, Ensuring good standards in living facilities is important canteen and cooking facilities, food safety, in order to avoid safety hazards and to protect medical facilities and leisure/social facilities. workers from diseases and/or illness resulting from humidity, bad/stagnant water (or lack of water), A. National/local standards cold, spread of fungus, proliferation of insects or rodents, as well as to maintain a good level of The key standards that need to be taken into morale. The location of the facilities is important consideration, as a baseline, are those contained to prevent exposure to wind, fire, flood and other in national/local regulations. Although it is quite natural hazards. It is also important that workers’ unusual to find regulations specifically covering accommodation is unaffected by the environmental workers’ accommodation, there may well be general or operational impacts of the worksite (for example construction standards which will be relevant. noise, emissions or dust) but is sufficiently close These may include the following standards: that workers do not have to spend undue amounts of time travelling from their accommodation to „„ Building construction: for example, quality of the worksite. Living facilities should be built using material, construction methods, resistance to adequate materials and should always be kept in good earthquakes. repair, clean and free from rubbish and other refuse. „„ Housing and public housing: in some countries Benchmarks regulations for housing and public housing 1. Living facilities are located to avoid flooding and contain requirements on issues such as the basic other natural hazards. amenities, and standards of repair. 2. Where possible, living facilities are located within a „„ General health, safety and security: requirements reasonable distance from the worksite. on health and safety are often an important part of building standards and might include provisions on 3. Transport from the living facilities to worksite is safe occupation density, minimal air volumes, ventilation, and free. the quality of the flooring (slip-resistant) or security against intrusion. 4. The living facilities are built with adequate materials, kept in good repair and kept clean and free from „„ Fire safety: requirements on fire safety are rubbish and other refuse. common and are likely to apply to housing facilities of any type. This can include provision on fire extinguishers, fire alarms, number and size of Drainage staircases and emergency exits, restrictions on the The presence of stagnant water is a factor of use of certain building materials. proliferation of potential disease vectors such as mosquitoes, flies and others, and must be avoided. „„ Electricity, plumbing, water and sanitation: national design and construction standards often include Benchmarks very detailed provisions on electricity or plumbing 1. The building site is adequately drained to avoid the fixtures/fittings, water and sanitation connection/ accumulation of stagnant water. equipment. 12 IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation Heating, air conditioning, ventilation and light 4. Drinking water quality is regularly monitored. Heating, air-conditioning and ventilation should be appropriate for the climatic conditions and provide workers with a comfortable and healthy Wastewater and solid waste environment to rest and spend their spare time. Wastewater treatment and effluent discharge as well as solid waste treatment and disposal must Benchmarks comply with local or World Bank effluent discharge 1. For facilities located in cold weather zones, the standards9 and be adequately designed to prevent temperature is kept at a level of around 20 degrees contamination of any water body, to ensure hygiene Celsius notwithstanding the need for adequate and to avoid the spread of infections and diseases, ventilation. the proliferation of mosquitoes, flies, rodents, and other pest vectors. Depending on the local context, 2. For facilities located in hot weather zones, adequate treatment and disposal services can be either ventilation and/or air conditioning systems are provided by dedicated or existing municipal facilities. provided. Benchmarks 3. Both natural and artificial lighting are provided and 1. Wastewater, sewage, food and any other waste maintained in living facilities. It is best practice that materials are adequately discharged, in compliance the window area represents not less than 5% to 10% with local or World Bank standards – whichever is more of the floor area. Emergency lighting is provided. stringent – and without causing any significant impacts on camp residents, the biophysical environment or surrounding communities. Water Special attention to water quality and quantity is 2. Specific containers for rubbish collection are absolutely essential. To prevent dehydration, water provided and emptied on a regular basis. Standards poisoning and diseases resulting from lack of range from providing an adequate number of rubbish hygiene, workers should always have easy access containers to providing leak proof, non-absorbent, rust to a source of clean water. An adequate supply and corrosion-resistant containers protected from of potable water must be available in the same insects and rodents. In addition it is best practice buildings where bedrooms or dormitories are provided. to locate rubbish containers 30 metres from each Drinking water must meet local or WHO drinking water shelter on a wooden, metal, or concrete stand. Such standards7 and water quality must be monitored containers must be emptied at regular intervals (to regularly. Depending on the local context, it could be determined based on temperatures and volumes either be produced by dedicated catchment and generated) to avoid unpleasant odours associated with treatment facilities or tapped from existing municipal decaying organic materials. facilities if their capacity and quality are adequate. 3. Pest extermination, vector control and disinfection Benchmarks are carried out throughout the living facilities in 1. Access to an adequate and convenient supply of compliance with local requirements and/or good free potable water is always available to workers. practice. Where warranted, pest and vector monitoring Depending on climate, weather conditions and should be performed on a regular basis. accommodation standards, 80 to 180 litres per person per day are available. 2. Drinking water meets national/local or WHO drinking water standards.8 3. All tanks used for the storage of drinking water are constructed and covered as to prevent water stored therein from becoming polluted or contaminated. 7. www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/dwq/en/ 9. As per the “Pollution Prevention and Abatement Handbook”, World Bank Group, July 1998, available 8. ibid from www.worldbank.org August 2009 13 C. Room/dormitory facilities Additional issue The standards of the rooms or dormitory facilities Irrespective of whether workers are are important to allow workers to rest properly and supposed to keep their facilities clean, it to maintain good standards of hygiene. Overcrowding is the responsibility of the accommodation should be avoided particularly. This also has an manager to ensure that rooms/dormitories impact on workers’ productivity and reduces work- and sanitary facilities are in good condition. related accidents. It is generally acknowledged that rooms/dormitories should be kept clean and in a good condition. Exposure to noise and odour Bed arrangements and storage facilities should be minimised. In addition, room/dormitory The provision of an adequate numbers of beds of design and equipment should strive to offer workers an appropriate size is essential to provide workers a maximum of privacy. Resorting to dormitories with decent, safe and hygienic conditions to rest should be minimised and single or double rooms are and sleep. Here again, particular attention should preferred. Dormitories and rooms must be single-sex. be paid to privacy. Consideration should be given to local customs so beds could be replaced by Benchmarks hammocks or sleeping mats for instance. 1. Rooms/dormitories are kept in good condition. Benchmarks 2. Rooms/dormitories are aired and cleaned at regular 1. A separate bed for each worker is provided. The intervals. practice of “hot-bedding” should be avoided. 3. Rooms/dormitories are built with easily cleanable 2. There is a minimum space between beds of 1 metre. flooring material. 3. Double deck bunks are not advisable for fire safety 4. Sanitary facilities are located within the same and hygiene reasons, and their use is minimised. buildings and provided separately for men and women. Where they are used, there must be enough clear space between the lower and upper bunk of the bed. 5. Density standards are expressed either in terms of Standards range from to 0.7 to 1.10 metres. minimal volume per resident or of minimal floor space. Usual standards range from 10 to 12.5 cubic metres 4. Triple deck bunks are prohibited. (volume) or 4 to 5.5 square metres (surface). 5. Each worker is provided with a comfortable mattress, 6. A minimum ceiling height of 2.10 metres is provided. pillow, cover and clean bedding. 7. In collective rooms, which are minimised, in order to 6. Bed linen is washed frequently and applied with provide workers with some privacy, only a reasonable repellents and disinfectants where conditions warrant number of workers are allowed to share the same (malaria). room. Standards range from 2 to 8 workers. 7. Facilities for the storage of personal belongings for 8. All doors and windows should be lockable, and workers are provided. Standards vary from providing provided with mosquito screens where conditions an individual cupboard for each worker to providing warrant. 475‑litre big lockers and 1 metre of shelf unit. 9. There should be mobile partitions or curtains to 8. Separate storage for work boots and other personal ensure privacy. protection equipment, as well as drying/airing areas may need to be provided depending on conditions. 10. Every resident is provided with adequate furniture such as a table, a chair, a mirror and a bedside light. 11. Separate sleeping areas are provided for men and women, except in family accommodation. 14 IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation D. Sanitary and toilet facilities Showers/bathrooms and other sanitary facilities Hand wash basins and showers should be provided in It is essential to allow workers to maintain a good conjunction with rooms/dormitories. These facilities standard of personal hygiene but also to prevent must be kept in good working condition and cleaned contamination and the spread of diseases which frequently. The flooring for shower facilities should result from inadequate sanitary facilities. Sanitary be of hard washable materials, damp-proof and and toilet facilities will always include all of the properly drained. Adequate space must be provided following: toilets, urinals, washbasins and showers. for hanging, drying and airing clothes. Suitable light, Sanitary and toilet facilities should be kept in a clean ventilation and soap should be provided. Lastly, hand and fully working condition. Facilities should also be washing, shower and other sanitary facilities should constructed of materials that are easily cleanable and be located within a reasonable distance from other ensure privacy. Sanitary and toilet facilities are never facilities and from sleeping facilities in particular. shared between male and female residents, except in family accommodation. Where necessary, specific Benchmarks additional sanitary facilities are provided for women. 1. Shower/bathroom flooring is made of anti-slip hard washable materials. Benchmarks 1. Sanitary and toilet facilities are constructed of 2. An adequate number of handwash facilities is materials that are easily cleanable. provided to workers. Standards range from 1 unit to each 15 persons to 1 unit per 6 workers. Handwash 2. Sanitary and toilet facilities are cleaned frequently facilities should consist of a tap and a basin, soap and and kept in working condition. hygienic means of drying hands. 3. Sanitary and toilet facilities are designed to provide 3. An adequate number of shower/bathroom facilities workers with adequate privacy, including ceiling to floor is provided to workers. Standards range from 1 unit to partitions and lockable doors. 15 persons to 1 unit per 6 persons. 4. Sanitary and toilet facilities are not shared between 4. Showers/bathrooms are conveniently located. men and women, except in family accommodation. 5. Shower/bathroom facilities are provided with an adequate supply of cold and hot running water. Toilet facilities Toilet arrangements are essential to avoid any contamination and prevent the spread of E. Canteen, cooking and laundry facilities infectious disease. Good standards of hygiene in canteen/dining halls Benchmarks and cooking facilities are crucial. Adequate canteen, 1. An adequate number of toilets is provided to cooking and laundry facilities and equipments should workers. Standards range from 1 unit to 15 persons to also be provided. When caterers are contracted to 1 unit per 6 persons. For urinals, usual standards are 1 manage kitchens and canteens, special attention unit to 15 persons. should be paid to ensure that contractors take into account and implement the benchmarks below, and 2. Toilet facilities are conveniently located and easily that adequate reporting and monitoring mechanisms accessible. Standards range from 30 to 60 metres are in place. When workers can individually cook their from rooms/dormitories. Toilet rooms shall be located meals, they should be provided with a space separate so as to be accessible without any individual passing from the sleeping areas. Facilities must be kept in through any sleeping room. In addition, all toilet rooms a clean and sanitary condition. In addition, canteen, should be well-lit, have good ventilation or external kitchen, cooking and laundry floors, ceilings and windows, have sufficient hand wash basins and walls should be made of easily cleanable materials. be conveniently located. Toilets and other sanitary facilities should be (“must be” in cold climates) in the same building as rooms and dormitories. August 2009 15 Benchmarks Benchmarks 1. Canteen, cooking and laundry facilities are built in 1. Canteens have a reasonable amount of space per adequate and easy to clean materials. worker. Standards range from 1 square metre to 1.5 square metres. 2. Canteen, cooking and laundry facilities are kept in a clean and sanitary condition. 2. Canteens are adequately furnished. Standards range from providing tables, benches, individual 3. If workers can cook their own meals, kitchen space drinking cups and plates to providing special drinking is provided separate from sleeping areas. fountains. 3. Places for food preparation are designed to permit Laundry facilities good food hygiene practices, including protection Providing facilities for workers to wash both against contamination between and during food work and non-work related clothes is essential preparation. for personal hygiene. The alternative is for the employer to provide a free laundry service. 4. Kitchens are provided with facilities to maintain adequate personal hygiene including a sufficient Benchmarks number of washbasins designated for cleaning hands 1. Adequate facilities for washing and drying clothes with clean, running water and materials for hygienic are provided. Standards range from providing sinks or drying. tubs with hot and cold water, cleaning soap and drying lines to providing washing machines and dryers. 5. Wall surfaces adjacent to cooking areas are made of fire-resistant materials. Food preparation tables 2. When work clothes are used in contact with are also equipped with a smooth durable washable dangerous substance (for example, application surface. Lastly, in order to enable easy cleaning, it is of pesticide), special laundry facilities (washing good practice that stoves are not sealed against a machines) should be provided. wall, benches and fixtures are not built into the floor, and all cupboards and other fixtures and all walls and Additional issue ceilings have a smooth durable washable surface. When workers are provided with facilities allowing 6. All kitchen floors, ceiling and wall surfaces adjacent them to individually do their laundry or cooking, to or above food preparation and cooking areas are it should be the responsibility of each worker built using durable, non-absorbent, easily cleanable, to keep the facilities in a clean and sanitary non-toxic materials. condition. Nonetheless, it is the responsibility of the accomodation manager to make sure 7. Wall surfaces adjacent to cooking areas are made the standards are respected and to provide of fire-resistant materials. Food preparation tables an adequate cleaning, disinfection and pest/ are equipped with a smooth, durable, easily cleanable, vector control service when necessary. non-corrosive surface made of non-toxic materials. Lastly, in order to enable easy cleaning, it is good practice that stoves are not sealed against a wall, Additional issue benches and fixtures are not built into the floor, and all cupboards and other fixtures have a smooth, durable When the employer provides family accommodation, and washable surface. it is best practice to provide each family with a private kitchen or the necessary cooking equipment 8. Adequate facilities for cleaning, disinfecting and to allow the family to cook on their own. storage of cooking utensils and equipment are provided. Canteen and cooking facilities 9. Food waste and other refuse are to be adequately Canteen and cooking facilities should provide deposited in sealable containers and removed from sufficient space for preparing food and eating, as the kitchen frequently to avoid accumulation. well as conform to hygiene and safety requirements. 16 IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation F. Standards for nutrition and food safety Benchmarks 1. The WHO 5 keys to safer food or an equivalent When cooking for a number of workers, hygiene process is implemented (see Box 6 below). and food safety are absolutely critical. In addition to providing safe food, providing nutritious 2. Food provided to workers contains an appropriate food is important as it has a very direct impact level of nutritional value and takes into account on workers’ productivity and well-being. An religious/cultural backgrounds; different choices of ILO study demonstrates that good nutrition at food are served if workers have different cultural/ work leads to gains in productivity and worker religious backgrounds. morale, prevention of accidents and premature deaths and reductions in health care costs.10 3. Food is prepared by cooks. It is also best practice that meals are planned by a trained nutritionist. Box 6 - Five keys to safer food Keep clean Wash your hands before handling food and While most micro organisms do not cause disease, often during food preparation. dangerous micro organisms are widely found in soil, Wash your hands after going to the toilet. water, animals and people. These micro organisms are carried on hands, wiping cloths and utensils, especially Wash and sanitise all surfaces and equipment cutting boards and the slightest contact can transfer used for food preparation. them to food and cause food borne diseases. Protect kitchen areas and food from insects, pests and other animals. Separate raw and cooked Separate raw meat, poultry and seafood from other foods. Raw food, especially meat, poultry and seafood, Use separate equipment and utensils such as knives and their juices, can contain dangerous micro and cutting boards for handling raw foods. organisms which may be transferred onto other foods during food preparation and storage. Store food in containers to avoid contact between raw and prepared foods. Cook thoroughly Cook food thoroughly, especially meat, poultry, eggs and seafood. Proper cooking kills almost all dangerous micro organisms. Bring foods like soups and stews to boiling to make sure that Studies have shown that cooking food to a temperature they have reached 70°C. For meat and poultry, make sure of 70°C can help ensure it is safe for consumption. Foods that juices are clear, not pink. Ideally, use a thermometer. that require special attention include minced meats, rolled roasts, large joints of meat and whole poultry. Reheat cooked food thoroughly. Keep food at safe temperatures Do not leave cooked food at room Micro organisms can multiply very quickly if food is stored at temperature for more than 2 hours. room temperature. By holding at temperatures below 5°C or Refrigerate promptly all cooked and perishable above 60°C, the growth of micro organisms is slowed down or food (preferably below 5°C). stopped. Some dangerous micro organisms still grow below 5°C. Keep cooked food piping hot (more than 60°C) prior to serving. Do not store food too long even in the refrigerator. Do not thaw frozen food at room temperature. Use safe water and raw materials Use safe water or treat it to make it safe. Raw materials, including water and ice, may be Select fresh and wholesome foods. contaminated with dangerous micro organisms and chemicals. Toxic chemicals may be formed in damaged Choose foods processed for safety, such as pasteurised milk. and mouldy foods. Take care in selection of raw materials Wash fruits and vegetables, especially if eaten raw. and implement simple measures such as washing. Do not use food beyond its expiry date. Source: World Health Organization, Food Safety www.who.int/foodsafety/publications/consumer/en/5keys_en.pdf 10. C. Wanjek (2005), “Food at Work – Workplace solutions for malnutrition, obesity and chronic disease”, International Labour Organization, Geneva. August 2009 17 G. Medical facilities Box 7 - UK/HSE First Aid facilities Access to adequate medical facilities is important What should be in a first aid kit? to maintain workers’ health and to provide adequate responses in case of health emergency situations. There is no standard list and it very The availability or level of medical facilities provided much depends on the assessment of in workers’ accommodation is likely to depend on the needs in a particular workplace: the number of workers living on site, the medical „„ a leaflet giving general guidance on first aid, facilities already existing in the neighbouring for example HSE leaflet Basic advice on first communities and the availability of transport. aid at work However, first aid must always be available on site. „„ individually wrapped sterile adhesive dressings (assorted sizes) First aid facilities „„ two sterile eye pads Providing adequate first aid training and „„ four individually wrapped triangular bandages facilities can save lives and prevent minor (preferably sterile) injuries becoming major ones. „„ six safety pins „„ six medium-sized (approximately 12 cm x 12 cm) Other medical facilities individually wrapped sterile unmedicated wound Depending on the number of workers living on dressings site and the medical services offered in the „„ two large (approximately 18 cm x 18 cm) sterile surrounding communities, it is important to individually wrapped unmedicated wound provide workers with additional medical facilities. dressings Special facilities for sick workers and medical „„ one pair of disposable gloves. services such as dental care, surgery, a dedicated emergency room can, for instance, be provided. What should be kept in the first aid room? Benchmarks The room should contain essential first aid facilities 1. A number of first aid kits adequate to the number of and equipment. Typical examples of these are: residents are available. „„ a sink with hot and cold running water „„ drinking water and disposable cups 2. First aid kits are adequately stocked. Where „„ soap and paper towels possible a 24/7 first aid service/facility is available. „„ a store for first aid materials „„ foot-operated refuse containers, lined with 3. An adequate number of staff/workers is trained to disposable yellow clinical waste bags or a provide first aid. container for the safe disposal of clinical waste „„ a couch with waterproof protection, clean pillows 4. Where possible and depending on the medical and blankets infrastructures existing in the community, other „„ a chair medical facilities are provided (nurse rooms, dental „„ a telephone or other communication equipment care, minor surgery). „„ a record book for recording incidents where first aid has been given. Source: UK Health and Safety Executive 18 IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation H. Leisure, social and Box 8 - Examples of social/leisure facilities telecommunication facilities In Qatar there is a newly built 170-hectare complex Basic leisure and social facilities are important for which accommodates contractors and more workers to rest and also to socialise during their than 35,000 workers for a project run by a major free time. This is particularly true where workers’ oil company. At the heart of this complex, the accommodation is located in remote areas far from recreation area includes extensive sport facilities, any communities. Where workers’ accommodation is a safety-training centre, an outdoor cinema and located in the vicinity of a village or a town, existing a park. The purpose of those facilities goes leisure or social facilities can be used so long as beyond providing adequate accommodation to this does not cause disruption to the access and the large numbers of contractors and workers enjoyment of local community members. But in any on this project but is designed to provide the case, social spaces should also be provided on same level of services as a small town. The site. Exercise and recreational facilities will increase accommodation complex has a mayor, as well as workers’ welfare and reduce the impact of the a dedicated welfare team which is responsible presence of workers in the surrounding communities. for the workers’ welfare, cultural festivals and In addition it is also important to provide workers with also acts as the community’s advocates. adequate means to communicate with the outside world, especially when workers’ accommodation is located in a remote location or where workers II. Managing workers’ accommodation live on site without their family or are migrants. Consideration of cultural attitudes is important. Once the living facilities have been constructed Provision of space for religious observance needs to and are operational, effective ongoing management be considered, taking account of the local context of living facilities is essential. This encompasses and potential conflicts in certain situations. issues such as the physical maintenance of buildings, security and consultation with Benchmarks residents and neighbouring communities in 1. Basic collective social/rest spaces are provided to order to ensure the implementation of the workers. Standards range from providing workers multi- housing standards in the long term. purpose halls to providing designated areas for radio, TV, cinema. A. Management and staff 2. Recreational facilities are provided. Standards range Worker camps and housing facilities should have a from providing exercise equipment to providing a library, written management plan, including management swimming pool, tennis courts, table tennis, educational policies or plans on health and safety, security, facilities. living conditions, workers’ rights and representation, relationships with the communities and grievance 3. Workers are provided with dedicated places for processes. Part of those policies and plans can religious observance if the context warrants. take the form of codes of conduct. The quality of the staff managing and maintaining the accommodation 4. Workers have access to public phones at affordable/ facilities will have a decisive impact on the level public prices (that is, not inflated). of standards which are implemented and the well- being of workers (for instance on the food safety or 5. Internet facilities can also be provided, particularly overall hygiene standards). It is therefore important where large numbers of expatriates/Third Country to ensure that managers are competent and other Nationals (TCNs) are accommodated. workers are adequately skilled. The manager will be responsible for overseeing staff, for ensuring the implementation of the accommodation standards and for the implementation of the management plans. It is important the accommodation manager has the corresponding authority to do so. August 2009 19 If the facility is being managed by a contractor, Benchmarks as is often the case, the expected housing and 1. When fees are charged, workers are provided with management standards should be specified in the clear information and a detailed description of all relevant contract, and mechanisms to ensure that payments made such as rent, deposit and other fees. those standards are implemented should be set up. As part of this process, the accommodation manager 2. When company housing is considered to be part (or contractor) should have a duty to monitor the of workers’ wages, it is best practice that workers application of the accommodation standards and to are provided with an employment contract clearly report frequently on their implementation to the client. specifying housing arrangements and regulations, in particular rules concerning payments and fees, Benchmarks facilities and services offered and rules of notice. 1. There are management plans and policies especially in the field of health and safety (with emergency 3. When fees are charged, the renting arrangements responses), security, workers’ rights, relationships with are fair and do not cost the worker more than a small the communities. proportion of income and never include a speculative profit. 2. An appointed person with the adequate background and experience is in charge of managing the workers’ 4. Food and other services are free or are reasonably accommodation. priced, never above the local market price. 3. If contractors are being used, there are clear 5. The provision of accommodation or other services contractual management responsibilities and by employers as a payment for work is prohibited. monitoring and reporting requirements. Additional issue 4. Depending on the size of the accommodation, there is a sufficient number of staff in charge of cleaning, To avoid that fair renting arrangements turn into cooking and of general maintenance. unfair ones, any deposit of advance should be set at a reasonable level and it is best practice that 5. Such staff are recruited from the local communities. renting prices include a fixed fee covering the water needed and the use of the energy required to the 6. Staff have received basic health and safety training. functioning of the heating/cooling/ventilation/ cooking systems. However, in such cases it might 7. Persons in charge of the kitchen are trained in be necessary to raise workers’ awareness to ensure nutrition and food-handling and adequately supervised. that workers will use the facilities responsibly, particularly in areas where water is scarce. B. Charging fees for accommodation and services C. Health and safety on site Charging fees for the accommodation or the services provided to workers such as food or The company or body in charge of managing the transport should be avoided where workers do not workers’ accommodation should have the prime have the choice to live or eat anywhere else, or if responsibility for ensuring workers’ physical well- deemed unavoidable, should take into account the being and integrity. This involves making sure that specific nature of workers’ accommodation. Any the facilities are kept in good condition (ensuring that charges should be transparent, discussed during sanitary standards or fire regulations are respected recruitment and specified in workers’ contracts. for instance) and that adequate health and safety Any such charges should still leave workers with plans and standards are designed and implemented. sufficient income and should never lead to a worker becoming indebted to an employer. 20 IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation Benchmarks carefully designed. To implement those plans, it 1. Health and safety management plans including may be necessary to contract security services electrical, mechanical, structural and food safety have or to recruit one or several staff whose main been carefully designed and are implemented. responsibility is to provide security to safeguard workers and property. Before making any security 2. The person in charge of managing the arrangements, it is necessary to assess the risks accommodation has a specific duty to report to the of such arrangements to those within and outside health authorities the outbreak of any contagious the workers’ accommodation and to respect best diseases, food poisoning and other important international practices, including IFC PS4 and EBRD casualties. PR4 and applicable law.11 Particular attention should be paid to the safety and security of women workers. 3. An adequate number of staff/workers is trained to provide first aid. Benchmarks 1. A security plan including clear measures to protect 4. A specific fire safety plan is prepared, including workers against theft and attack is implemented. training of fire wardens, periodic testing and monitoring of fire safety equipment and periodic drills. 2. A security plan including clear policies on the use of force has been carefully designed and is implemented. 5. Guidance on the detrimental effects of the abuse of alcohol and drugs and other potentially harmful 3. Security staff have been checked to ensure that substances and the risk and concerns relating to they have not been implicated in any previous crimes HIV/AIDS and of other health risk-related activities is or abuses. Where appropriate, security staff from both provided to workers. It is best practice to develop a genders are recruited. clear policy on this issue. 4. Security staff have a clear mandate and have 6. Workers have access to adequate preventive received clear instruction about their duties and measures such as contraception (condoms in responsibilities, in particular their duties not to harass, particular) and mosquito nets. intimidate, discipline or discriminate against workers. 7. Workers have easy access to medical facilities and 5. Security staff have received adequate training in medical staff. Where possible, female doctors/nurses dealing with domestic violence and the use of force. should be available for female workers. 6. Security staff have a good understanding about the 8. Emergency plans on health and fire safety are importance of respecting workers’ rights and the rights prepared. Depending on the local context, additional of the communities. emergency plans are prepared as needed to handle specific occurrences (earthquakes, floods, tornadoes). 7. Body searches are only allowed in specific circumstances and are performed by specially trained security staff using the least-intrusive means possible. D. Security of workers’ accommodation Pat down searches on female workers can only be performed by female security staff. Ensuring the security of workers and their property on the accommodation site is of key importance. To 8. Security staff adopt an appropriate conduct towards this end, a security plan must be carefully designed workers and communities. including appropriate measures to protect workers against theft and attacks. Policies regarding the 9. Workers and members of the surrounding use of force (force can only be used for preventive communities have specific means to raise concerns and defensive purposes in proportion to the about security arrangement and staff. nature and the extent of the threat) should also be 11. See for instance the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights. www.voluntaryprinciples.org/principles August 2009 21 E. Workers’ rights, rules and regulations Benchmarks on workers’ accommodation 1. Restriction of workers’ freedom of movement to and from the site is limited and duly justified. It is Freedoms and human rights of workers should be good practice to provide workers 24/7 access to recognised and respected within their living quarters the accommodation site. Any restrictions based on just as within the working environment. House security reasons should be balanced by the necessity rules and regulations should be reasonable and to respect workers’ freedom of movement. non discriminatory. It is best practice that workers’ representatives are consulted about those rules. 2. Where possible, an adequate transport system House rules and regulations should not prevent to surrounding communities is provided. It is good workers from exercising their basic rights. In particular, practice to provide workers with free transportation to workers’ freedom of movement needs to be preserved and from local communities. if they are not to become effectively “trapped”. To this end it is good practice to provide workers with 3. Withholding workers’ ID papers is prohibited. 24/7 access to the accommodation and free transport services to and from the surrounding communities. 4. Freedom of association is expressly respected. Any restriction to this freedom of movement should Provisions restricting workers’ rights on site should be limited and duly justified. Penalties for breaking take into account the direct and indirect effect on the rules should be proportional and implemented workers’ freedom of association. It is best practice to through a proper procedure allowing workers to defend provide trade union representatives access to workers themselves and to challenge the decision taken. in the accommodation site. The relationship between continuing employment and compliance with the rules of the workers’ 5. Workers’ gender and religious, cultural and social accommodation should be clear and particular backgrounds are respected. In particular, workers attention should be paid to ensure that housing should be provided with the possibility of celebrating rules do not create indirect limitation of the right to religious holidays and observances. freedom of association. Best practice might include a code of conduct relating to the accommodation to 6. Workers are made aware of their rights and be signed together with the contract of employment. obligations and are provided with a copy of the internal workers’ accommodation rules, procedures and sanction mechanisms in a language or through a Box 9 - Dole housing plantation media which they understand. regulation in Costa Rica 7. Housing regulations, including those relating to In every plantation there is an internal allocation of housing, should be non-discriminatory. accommodation regulation that every worker is Any justifiable discriminatory rules – for example required to sign together with his/her employment all-male dormitories – should be strictly limited to contract. That document describes the behaviour the rules which are necessary to ensure the smooth which is expected from workers at all times and running of the worker camp and to maintain a good basic rules such as the prohibition of alcohol relationship with the surrounding communities. and the interdiction to make noise after a certain time at night. In case there is any problem 8. Where possible, visitor access should be allowed. concerning the application of those internal rules, a set of disciplinary procedures which have been 9. Decisions should be made on whether to prohibit designed with the workers’ representatives can alcohol, tobacco and third party access or not from be enforced. Workers are absolutely free to enter the camp and the relevant rules should be clearly or leave the site and do not have any restrictions communicated to all residents and workers. in relation to accessing their living quarters. Families are not allowed in the living quarters 10. A fair and non-discriminatory procedure exists unless they have been registered for a visit. to implement disciplinary procedures including the right of workers to defend themselves (see also next section). 22 IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation F. Consultation and grievance mechanisms G. Management of community relations All residents should be made aware of any rules Workers’ living facilities have various ongoing governing the accommodation and the consequences impacts on adjacent communities. In order to of breaking such rules. Processes that allow manage these, it is good practice to design a for consultation between site management and thorough community relations management plan. the resident workers will assist in the smooth This plan will contain the processes to implement running of an accommodation site. These may the findings of the preliminary community impact include a dormitory or camp committee as well assessment and to identify, manage, mitigate as formal processes that allow workers to lodge or enhance ongoing impacts of the workers’ any grievances about their accommodation. accommodation on the surrounding communities. Issues to be taken into consideration include: Benchmarks „„ community development – impact of workers’ camp 1. Mechanisms for workers’ consultation have been on local employment, possibility of enhancing local designed and implemented. It is best practice to set employment and income generation through local up a review committee which includes representatives sourcing of goods and services elected by workers. „„ community needs – ways to identify and address community needs related to the arrival of specific 2. Processes and mechanisms for workers to infrastructures such as telecommunications, water articulate their grievances are provided to workers. sanitation, roads, health care, education, housing Such mechanisms are in accordance with PS2/PR2. „„ community health and safety – addressing and reducing the risk in the increase in communicable 3. Workers subjected to disciplinary proceedings diseases, corruption, trade in illegal substances arising from behaviour in the accommodation should such as drugs, alcohol (in the Muslim context), have access to a fair and transparent hearing with petty crimes and other sorts of violence, road the possibility to contest decisions and refer the accidents dispute to independent arbitration or relevant public „„ community social and cultural cohesion – ways authorities. to mitigate the impact of the presence of large numbers of foreign workers, often males, with 4. In case conflicts between workers themselves or different cultural and religious background, ways to between workers and staff break out, workers have the mitigate the possible shift in social, economic and possibility of easily accessing a fair conflict resolution political structures due to changes in access to mechanism. income generation opportunities. 5. In cases where more serious offences occur, Benchmarks including serious physical or mental abuse, there are 1. Community relations plans addressing issues mechanisms to ensure full cooperation with the police around community development, community needs, authority (where adequate). community health and safety and community social and cultural cohesion have been designed and implemented. Additional issue 2. Community relations plans include the setting up Alcohol is a complex issue and requires a very of a liaison mechanism allowing a constant exchange clear policy from the workers’ accommodation of information and consultation with the local management. If a non-alcohol policy is communities in order to identify and respond quickly to taken, special attention should be paid any problems and maintain good working relationships. to clearly communicate the interdiction, how it applies and the consequences for 3. A senior manager is in charge of implementing the breaching this rule. Special attention should community relations management plan and liaising also be paid to enforce it adequately. with the community. August 2009 23 4. The impacts of workers’ accommodation on local communities are periodically reviewed, mitigated or enhanced. 5. Community representatives are provided with an easy means to voice their opinions and to lodge complaints. 6. There is a transparent and efficient process for dealing with community grievances, in accordance with PS1/PR10. Box 10 - Examples of community relations management Community consultation in the Baku- Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline The BTC pipeline’s Environment and Social Management Plans incorporated a Worker Camp Management Plan to be implemented by the construction contractor. As part of ongoing community liaison over the project as a whole, community liaison officers were appointed for worker camps who were responsible for meeting regularly with communities, identifying issues and addressing community concerns. A particular responsibility was to review HR records and disciplinary logs at worker camps to assess that rules were being implemented effectively and that any community liaison after any incidents was effective. 24 ANNEX I: CHECKLIST ON WORKERS’ ACCOMMODATION IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation Y N N/A Comments General regulatory framework Have the international/national/local regulatory frameworks been reviewed? Are mandatory provisions on workers’ accommodation identified? Assessing the need for workers’ accommodation Availability of the workforce Has there been an assessment of workers’ availability in the neighbouring communities? Has there been an assessment of the skills and competencies of the local workforce and how do those skills and competencies fit the project’s need? Has there been an assessment of the possibility of training a local workforce in order to fulfil the project’s needs? Availability of housing Has there been a comprehensive assessment of the different type of housing available in the surrounding communities prior to building any workers’ accommodation? For a larger project: is that assessment included in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment? Has there been an assessment of the impact on the communities of using existing housing opportunities? Have measures to mitigate adverse impacts on the local housing market been identified and included in the Environmental and Social Action Plan (ESAP) or other relevant action plan? Y N N/A Comments Assessing impacts of workers’ accommodation on communities Has a community impact assessment been carried out as part of the Environmental and Social Assessment of the overall project with a view to mitigate the negative impacts of the workers’ accommodation on the surrounding communities and to enhance the positive ones? Have the potential health and safety impacts and consequences of land acquisition and involuntary resettlement occurring during the construction phase of the workers’ accommodation been included in the assessment? Have the impacts of workers’ accommodation on community infrastructures, services and facilities been included in the assessment? Have the impacts on local community’s businesses and local employment been included in the assessment? Have general impacts of workers’ accommodation on communities’ health, (notably the increased risk of road accidents and of communicable diseases), and community social cohesion been included in the assessment? Does the assessment include appropriate mitigation measures to address any adverse impacts identified? Types of workers’ accommodation Has consideration been given to provision of family accommodation? Are individual accommodations comprising bedrooms, sanitary and cooking facilities provided as part of the family accommodation? Are adequate nursery/school facilities provided? Is special attention paid to providing adequate safety for children? August 2009 25 26 Y N N/A Comments Standards for workers’ accommodation IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation National/local standards Have the relevant national/local regulations been identified and implemented? General living facilities Is the location of the facilities designed to avoid flooding or other natural hazards? Are the living facilities located within a reasonable distance from the worksite? Is transport provided to worksite safe and free? Are the living facilities built using adequate materials, kept in good repair and kept clean and free from rubbish and other refuse? Drainage Is the site adequately drained? Heating, air conditioning, ventilation and light Depending on climate are living facilities provided with adequate heating, ventilation, air conditioning and light systems including emergency lighting? Water Do workers have easy access to a supply of clean/ potable water in adequate quantities? Does the quality of the water comply with national/local requirements or WHO standards? Are tanks used for the storage of drinking water constructed and covered to prevent water stored therein from becoming polluted or contaminated? Is the quality of the drinking water regularly monitored? Y N N/A Comments Wastewater and solid waste Are wastewater, sewage, food and any other waste materials adequately discharged in compliance with local or World Bank standards and without causing any significant impacts on camp residents, the environment or surrounding communities? Are specific containers for rubbish collection provided and emptied on a regular basis? Are pest extermination, vector control and disinfection undertaken throughout the living facilities? Rooms/dormitories facilities Are the rooms/dormitories kept in good condition? Are the rooms/dormitories aired and cleaned at regular intervals? Are the rooms/dormitories built with easily cleanable flooring material? Are the rooms/dormitories and sanitary facilities located in the same buildings? Are residents provided with enough space? Is the ceiling height high enough? Is the number of workers sharing the same room/dormitory minimised? Are the doors and windows lockable and provided with mosquito screens when necessary? Are mobile partitions or curtains provided? August 2009 Is suitable furniture such as table, chair, mirror, bedside light provided for every worker? Are separate sleeping areas provided for men and women? 27 28 Y N N/A Comments Bed arrangements and storage facilities IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation Is there a separate bed provided for every worker? Is the practice of “hot-bedding” prohibited? Is there a minimum space of 1 metre between beds? Is the use of double deck bunks minimised? When double deck bunks are in use, is there enough clear space between the lower and upper bunk of the bed? Are triple deck bunks prohibited? Are workers provided with comfortable mattresses, pillows and clean bed linens? Are the bed linen washed frequently and applied with adequate repellents and disinfectants (where conditions warrant)? Are adequate facilities for the storage of personal belongings provided? Are there separate storages for work clothes and PPE and depending on condition, drying/airing areas? Sanitary and toilet facilities Are sanitary and toilet facilities constructed from materials that are easily cleanable? Are sanitary and toilet facilities cleaned frequently and kept in working condition? Are toilets, showers/bathrooms and other sanitary facilities designed to provide workers with adequate privacy including ceiling to floor partitions and lockable doors? Are separate sanitary and toilet facilities provided for men and women? Y N N/A Comments Toilet facilities Is there an adequate number of toilets and urinals? Are toilet facilities conveniently located and easily accessible? Showers/bathrooms and other sanitary facilities Is the shower flooring made of anti-slip hard washable materials? Is there an adequate number of hand wash basins and showers/bathrooms facilities provided? Are the sanitary facilities conveniently located? Are shower facilities provided with an adequate supply of cold and hot running water? Canteen, cooking and laundry facilities Are canteen, cooking and laundry facilities built with adequate and easy to clean materials? Are the canteen, cooking and laundry facilities kept in clean and sanitary condition? If workers cook their own meals, is kitchen space provided separately from the sleeping areas? Laundry facilities Are adequate facilities for washing and drying clothes provided? Canteen and cooking facilities Are workers provided with enough space in the canteen? August 2009 Are canteens adequately furnished? Are kitchens provided with the facilities to maintain adequate personal hygiene? 29 30 Y N N/A Comments Are places for food preparation adequately ventilated and equipped? IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation Are kitchen floor, ceiling and wall surfaces adjacent to or above food preparation and cooking areas built in non-absorbent, durable, non-toxic, easily cleanable materials? Are wall surfaces adjacent to cooking areas made of fire-resistant materials and food preparation tables equipped with a smooth, durable, non-corrosive, non-toxic, washable surface? Are adequate facilities for cleaning, disinfecting and storage of cooking utensils and equipment provided? Are there adequate sealable containers to deposit food waste and other refuse? Is refuse frequently removed from the kitchen to avoid accumulation? Standards for nutrition and food safety Is there a special sanitary process such as the WHO “5 keys to safer food” implemented in relation to food safety? Does the food provided contain appropriate nutritional value? Does the food provided take into account workers’ religious/cultural backgrounds? Medical facilities Are first aid kits provided in adequate numbers? Are first-aid kits adequately stocked? Is there an adequate number of staff/workers trained to provide first aid? Are there any other medical facilities/services provided on site? If not, why? Leisure, social and telecommunications facilities Are basic social collective spaces and adequate recreational areas provided to workers? Are workers provided with dedicated places for religious observance? Can workers access a telephone at an affordable/public price? Are workers provided with access to internet facilities? Y N N/A Comments Managing workers’ accommodation Management and staff Are there carefully designed worker camp management plans and policies especially in the field of health and safety (including emergency responses), security, workers’ rights and relationships with the communities? Where contractors are used, have they clear contractual management responsibilities and duty to report? Does the person appointed to manage the accommodation have the required background, competency and experience to conduct his mission and is he/ she provided with the adequate responsibility and authority to do so? Is there enough staff to ensure the adequate implementation of housing standards (cleaning, cooking and security in particular)? Are staff members recruited from surrounding communities? Have the staff received basic health and safety training? Are the persons in charge of the kitchen particularly trained in nutrition and food handling and adequately supervised? Charging fees for accommodation and services Are the renting arrangements fair and transparent? Are workers provided with adequate information about payment made? Where appropriate, are renting arrangements and regulations clearly included in workers’ employment contracts? Are food and other services provided for free or reasonably priced, that is, not above the local market price? August 2009 Is the payment in kind for accommodation and services prohibited? 31 32 Y N N/A Comments Health and safety on site IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation Have health and safety management plans including electrical, mechanical, structural and food safety been designed and implemented? Has the accommodation manager a duty to report to the health authority specific diseases, food poisoning or casualties? Is there an adequate number of staff/workers trained in providing first aid? Has a specific and adequate fire safety management plan been designed and implemented? Is guidance on alcohol, drug and HIV/AIDS and other health risk-related activities provided to workers? Are contraception measures (condoms in particular) and mosquito nets (where relevant) provided to workers? Do workers have an easy access to medical facilities and medical staff, including female doctors/nurses where appropriate? Have emergency plans on health and fire safety been prepared? Depending on circumstances, have specific emergency plans (earthquakes, floods, tornadoes) been prepared? Security on workers’ accommodation Has a security plan including clear measures to protect workers against theft and attack been designed and implemented? Has a security plan including clear provisions on the use of force been designed and implemented? Have the backgrounds of security staff been checked for previous crimes or abuses? Has the recruitment of security staff from both genders been considered? Have security staff received clear instruction about their duty and responsibility? Have security staff been adequately trained in dealing with domestic violence and the use of force? Y N N/A Comments Are body searches only performed in exceptional circumstances by specifically trained security staff of both genders? Do security staff have a good understanding about the importance of respecting workers’ rights and the rights of the surrounding communities and adopt appropriate conduct? Do workers and communities have specific means to raise concerns about security arrangements and staff? Workers’ rights, rules and regulations on workers’ accommodation Are limitations on workers’ freedom of movement limited and justified? Is an adequate transport system to the surrounding communities provided? Is the practice of withholding workers’ ID papers prohibited? Is freedom of association expressly respected? Are workers’ religious, cultural and social backgrounds respected? Are workers made aware of their rights and obligations and provided with a copy of the accommodations’ internal rules, procedures and sanction mechanisms in a language or through a media they understand? Are house regulations non discriminatory, fair and reasonable? Are regulations on alcohol, tobacco and third parties’ access to the camp clear and communicated to workers? Is a fair and non-discriminatory procedure to implement disciplinary procedures, including the right for workers to defend themselves, set up? August 2009 33 34 Y N N/A Comments Consultation and grievance mechanisms IFC/EBRD | Guidance on Workers’ Accommodation Have mechanisms for workers’ consultation been designed and implemented? Are workers provided with processes and mechanisms to articulate their grievances in accordance with PS2/PR2? Have workers subjected to disciplinary proceedings arising from conduct in the accommodation had access to a fair and transparent hearing with the possibility to appeal the decision? Are there fair conflict resolution mechanisms in place? In cases where serious offences occur, are there mechanisms to ensure full cooperation with police authorities? Management of community relations Have community relation management plans addressing issues around community development, community needs, community health and safety and community social and cultural cohesion been designed and implemented? Do community relation management plans include the setting up of liaison mechanisms to allow a constant exchange of information and consultation of the surrounding communities? Is there a senior manager in charge of implementing the community relation management plan? Is there a senior manager in charge of liaising with the surrounding communities? Are the impacts generated by workers’ accommodation periodically reviewed, mitigated or enhanced? Are community representatives provided with easy means to voice their opinions and lodge complaints? Is there a transparent and efficient process for dealing with community grievances, in accordance with PS1/PR10? August 2009 Acknowledgements “Workers’ accommodation: processes and standards” is a joint publication of the EBRD and IFC, who co-commissioned Ergon Associates to research and draft the document. EBRD team: Environment and Sustainability Department: Alke Schmidt, Michaela Bergman, Debbie Cousins, Frederic Giovannetti, Jeff Jeter Editorial and Desktop Publishing: Natasha Treloar, Bryan Whitford IFC team: Environment and Social Development Department: Larissa Luy, Sofie Fleischer Michaelsen, Diana Baird, Wenlei Zhou, Piotr Mazurkiewicz, Robert Gerrits. Editorial: Anna Hidalgo Ergon Associates team: Jean-Baptiste Andrieu, Stuart Bell, Amber Frugte, Steve Gibbons This version of the Guidance Note benefited from valuable input from a number of external parties including Mary Boomgard (OPIC), Melinda Buckland (BHP Billiton), Kerry Connor (Bechtel), Alan Fine (Anglo Gold Ashanti), George Jaksch (Chiquita), Birgitte B. Nielsen (IFU), Roberto Vega (Dole), Karin Verstralen (FMO), Petter Vilsted (Norfund) and Elizabeth Wild (BP). We would also like to thank all companies that agreed to contribute practical examples. For more information please contact EBRD Environment and Sustainability Department, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) One Exchange Square, London EC2A 2JN United Kingdom Tel: +44 20 7338 6000 Email: environmentalandsocial@ebrd.com IFC Environment and Social Development Department: International Finance Corporation, 2121 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20433, United States Tel: +1 (202) 473 1000 Fax: +1 (202) 974 4349 Email: asksustainability@ifc.org © European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and International Finance Corporation, 2009 European Bank for Reconstruction and Development One Exchange Square London EC2A 2JN United Kingdom Tel: +44 20 7338 6000 Fax: +44 20 7338 6100 SWIFT: EBRDGB2L The material in this publication is copyrighted. IFC and the EBRD encourage the dissemination of the content for educational purposes. 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