Labour Ministry launching comprehensive workplace safety and health programme -Minister Hamilton
Minister of Labour, Hon. Joseph Hamilton says his Ministry would soon embark on a comprehensive programme focusing on safety and health and including COVID-19 precautions in all workplaces this year.
The Minister said these activities would target the mining and construction sectors due to the number of fatalities that occurred in 2020.
As such, outreaches will be conducted in mining communities in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine via a partnership with key stakeholders, he said in his message to mark Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Month. The Ministry has recorded 12 workplace fatalities since August 5 last.
“The messages will be on accident prevention and the adherence to COVID-19 protocols for the workplace. Therefore, there will be various inspections at construction sites to ensure that there is compliance with the OSH Act, and the OSH officers of this Ministry will also be available to provide technical support for employers and trade unions programmes,” he said.
To this end, the Ministry would be able to build and maintain safe work environments, by utilising all available means to increase general awareness, knowledge and understanding of the concept of hazards and risks.
Minister Hamilton said it is time employers and employees work together to develop and strengthen the OSH systems in their respective workplaces.
“There is need a great need for us to place an increased focus on good workplace safety and health practices, and promote the safety and health culture in Guyana. Therefore, investing in Occupational Safety and Health Systems, and the workplace is a necessity. It is very important and can save lives.”
Guyana is observing Occupational Safety and Health month under the theme, “Investing in OSH systems, capitalising on safety and healthy working environment in times of crisis.”
This complements the theme initiated by the International Labour Organization for World Day for Safety and Health at Work, which will be observed on April 28. It is also recognised as Occupational Safety and Health Day in Guyana.
“I consider the theme very apt given the COVID-19 pandemic, and the effects of the challenges which were faced by the workplace in Guyana during the past year. It is quite obvious that there is a need to strengthen our OSH systems, and enable them to address the crisis now and in the future. Therefore, it is incumbent on us to “anticipate, prepare and respond to a crisis as we invest now in resilient Occupational Safety and Health Systems,’” Minister Hamilton said.
Since taking office, the Minister has expanded the capacity of the OSH department with 20 new employees. Additionally, all staff are being taught Spanish and Portuguese to respond to the needs of migrant workers.