Government Officially Recognizes Occupational Diseases for the First Time

 Kathmandu, August 13

For the first time, the Nepali government has officially recognized certain work-related illnesses as “occupational diseases.” The Ministry of Labour, Employment, and Social Security has published a list of these diseases in the Nepal Gazette, in line with the Labour Regulations, 2075 B.S.

This step means that health problems caused by workplace dust, chemicals, noise, or the nature of the job will now be treated as work-related issues, not personal ones. It strengthens workers’ health rights and makes employers more accountable for workplace safety.

The list includes eight categories of occupational diseases:

  • Diseases from chemical exposure: Caused by substances like chromium, lead, mercury, benzene, sulfur oxides, chlorine, organic solvents, and certain medicines.

  • Diseases from physical factors: Such as hearing loss, radiation effects, and illnesses from extreme hot or cold conditions.

  • Infectious diseases from biological agents: Including hepatitis B and C, HIV, brucellosis, anthrax, tetanus, tuberculosis, and leptospirosis—often linked to contaminated tools, unsafe environments, or animal contact.

  • Respiratory diseases: Such as pneumoconiosis, siderosis, bagassosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

  • Skin and musculoskeletal diseases: Skin allergies, dermatitis, and conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tenosynovitis, bursitis, and meniscus injuries.

  • Mental and behavioral disorders: Including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) caused by accidents or workplace violence.

  • Occupational cancers: Linked to asbestos, chromium, coal tar, soot, benzene, radiation, wood dust, arsenic, cadmium, and certain viruses like hepatitis B and C.

According to Chapter 12 of the Labour Act, 2074 B.S., employers must cover medical treatment for any worker diagnosed with an occupational disease. If the illness is incurable, they must also provide the required compensation.

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