Health and safety compliance in the readymade garment sector of Bangladesh: practices and observation

Abstract

The ready-made garment (RMG) industry plays a vital role in Bangladesh’s economy through export earnings, employment generation, and women empowerment. Despite remarkable growth, concerns regarding workers’ health and safety remain significant. This study explores health and safety compliance practices in the Bangladeshi RMG sector through a qualitative case study approach. Data were collected through literature review, database searches, focus group discussion, and observation of a garment factory using the Bangladesh Labor Act 2006 (amended 2013) as a benchmark. Findings reveal partial compliance with safety standards, inadequate worker awareness, weak regulatory enforcement, and persistent pressure from global competition affecting workplace safety and labor welfare.