1,175 killed in workplace accidents in 2019: report
The number of workplace accidents and incidents of violence against workers increased significantly in 2019 compared to last year, according to a report launched yesterday.
Bangladesh Institute of Labour Studies (BILS) said at least 1,175 workers were killed and 659 were injured in various workplace accidents across the country since January.
Besides, some 329 workers were killed and several hundred were injured in a total of 1,285 instances of violence -- including murder, torture and rape.
Last year, the number of deaths in workplace accidents was 1,020, and the total incidents of violence was 764, said the report, based on news published in different national dailies throughout the year.
The findings were unveiled at a seminar held at BILS office in the capital.
The report said transport workers suffered the highest number of causalities, while migrant workers faced violence the most.
It also said at least 36 women were raped and 27 were gang-raped within the timeframe. Most rape victims were garment workers and domestic helps, the report added.
Reviewing the report findings, BILS Advisor Amirul Haque Amin said it is a matter of concern that the number of workplace accidents and violence against workers are increasing gradually.
“Ensuring a decent salary and safe workplace environment for workers are imperative if we want to make the country’s economic progress sustainable,” he added.
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