British American Tobacco Nigeria (BAT Nigeria) is marking a significant milestone this World Day for Safety and Health at Work, having achieved four consecutive years without a single Lost Time Injury (LTI) across all operations.
The achievement underscores the company’s employee-first approach to workplace safety and health, where Environmental, Health & Safety (EH&S) is treated as a core business priority rather than a mere compliance requirement.
“Employee safety and operational excellence are two sides of the same coin,” said Hasnain Ishtiaq, Operations Director at BAT West and Central Africa. “This zero-harm record reflects the strength of a united culture driven by innovation and leadership.”
Comprehensive safety framework
BAT Nigeria’s safety success stems from a robust EH&S system aligned with international standards, including ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001. The company employs proactive risk assessments, digital safety reporting mechanisms, and regular audits to ensure workplace safety evolves alongside operations.
In 2024, the company achieved over 90% participation in its Pulsar behavioural safety programme, demonstrating strong employee engagement. BAT Nigeria also successfully passed the rigorous Willis Property Fire Safety Audit, confirming compliance with global fire safety protocols.
Read Also: Hand Hygiene Day: FG tasks states to set up budget lines for infection prevention
Beyond factory floors
The company’s safety initiatives extend beyond manufacturing facilities to encompass fleet operations and administrative offices. Enhanced digital tools for near-miss reporting have resulted in a 12% increase in safety awareness reports.
This year, BAT Nigeria partnered with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to licence all forklift drivers under national standards, promoting safer logistics practices. The company has also expanded digital work permits and upgraded hazard reporting systems for high-risk tasks while intensifying contractor training in specialised areas like confined spaces and elevated work.
Health and wellness focus
Health remains central to BAT Nigeria’s strategy through its Occupational Health Management Programme. Employees benefit from onsite clinics, regular health screenings, and wellness campaigns addressing prevalent issues including malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and COVID-19. These health initiatives extend to employees’ families across West and Central Africa.
The company’s comprehensive approach demonstrates that achieving and maintaining a zero-harm workplace is both achievable and sustainable when organisations prioritise people, health, and environmental considerations.
