Albania strengthens labour inspection capacity on occupational safety and health

BUDAPEST (ILO News) - The International Labour Organization (ILO), through the UN Joint Project "Business Partnerships and Solutions for SDGs" funded by Sweden, has completed a nationwide capacity-building programme to strengthen the occupational safety and health (OSH) capacity of Albania's State Labour Inspectorate.

The initiative responded to a government request to reinforce OSH capacities in high-risk sectors, particularly construction and the textile, clothing, leather and footwear industries.

Delivered across the towns of Korçë, Vlorë, Shkodër and Durrës, the programme combined classroom training with practical fieldwork. All labour inspectors participated and received certification, marking a significant step in strengthening Albania's labour inspection system and supporting the country's Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) commitments.

The training focused on practical skills, including hazard identification, risk prevention and workplace inspection techniques. Using ILO Codes of Practice adopted in 2022, the sessions included case studies, group discussions and workplace visits, enabling inspectors to apply their knowledge in real working environments and engage directly with employers and workers.

Beyond technical skills, the programme promoted a preventive approach to OSH, encouraging stronger worker participation and inter-institutional cooperation.

The programme also identified key areas for further support, including developing thematic expert networks within the inspectorate, enhancing inspection methodologies, and improving national systems for reporting and analysing occupational accidents and diseases. Strengthening these areas would support more effective, risk-based inspections and contribute to the implementation of Albania's National OSH Strategy 2025-2030.