Frame nat'l policy to ensure occupational safety

Speakers at a seminar yesterday urged the government to ensure occupational safety and health at workplace through strict enforcement of the existing laws and formulation of a national occupational safety and health (OSH) policy.
Bangladesh Occupational Safety, Health and Environment Foundation (OSHE), a specialised NGO, organised the seminar on 'Health and life at work: A basic human right' at the National Press Club in the city to mark the World Day for Safety and Health at Work-2009.
Speaking as the chief guest, Chairman of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Labour and Employment Ministry Shahjahan Khan MP said most of the workplace incidents take place due to lack of awareness of workers as well as negligence of employers.
Terming the present government worker-friendly, he said it is committed to ensuring rights of the workers.
Admitting to some flaws in the Labour Law 2006, the lawmaker said, “We have already made a committee to review the law to ensure the protection and rights of labourers.”
He also called on the government and non-government organisations to place their recommendations related to labour rights issues to the ministry to help the review of the labour law.”

Highlighting the significance of the day, OSHE Chairperson Saki Rezwana placed a set of recommendations to ensure occupational safety and health at workplace in the country, including immediate formulation of a national industry, health and safety council.
Other recommendations include proper implementation of Bangladesh national building code with formulation of 'code enforcement agency', increase of compensation for workplace deaths and injuries and enhancement of labour inspection system with recruitment of skilled inspectors.
Skop Coordinator Dr Wajedul Islam Khan as the special guest urged the government to take stern action against the employers who do not ensure good workplace environment, including workers' safety and security.
The speakers said violations of Bangladesh national building code and other rules, lack of effective inspection system, absence of committee on occupational safety and health, ignorance of employers and lack of knowledge of the workers towards health and safety issues are among the main reasons behind the workplace accidents and health hazards.
National Consultant of WHO Dr Salamat Khandker and researcher Shakila Matin Mridula presented papers at the seminar, while Bangladesh Labour Federation President Shah Md Abu Zafar, among others, spoke at the programme.