Jobs with Unfavourable Working Conditions

The current Labour Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan does not impose a general prohibition preventing women from working in particular professions or across an entire industry.

An employer may, in agreement with the trade union committee and taking into account recommendations approved by the competent authorities, establish a list of specific jobs with unfavourable working conditions on which the employment of women is restricted.

Important: such a restriction does not automatically apply to an entire profession or industry. It must be justified by the conditions of a particular workplace and the risks posed to health.

When establishing the list, the following must be taken into account:

• harmful or hazardous working conditions;
• occupational risks;
• occupational safety requirements;
• the position of the trade union committee;
• recommendations of the competent authorities.

Lifting and Moving Heavy Loads

Women may not be assigned to lift or move loads exceeding the maximum permissible limits established for them.

Maximum permissible loads are established by the competent authorities in the fields of employment and healthcare in agreement with the Republican Tripartite Commission on Social and Labour Matters.

Restrictions Must Not Result in Discrimination

Occupational safety restrictions may not be used as an unjustified reason for refusing to employ a woman in safe work corresponding to her qualifications.

An employer must:

• ensure safe conditions at every workplace;
• inform employees about existing occupational risks;
• provide the required individual and collective protective equipment;
• arrange statutory medical examinations.

The purpose of restrictions relating to women’s labour is to protect the employee’s life and health, not to unjustifiably limit women’s employment opportunities.