Workers want urgent action
The following letter was published in the Straits Times on 26 June 2010.
Workers want urgent action
Straits Times, Jun 26, 2010
THE Building, Construction and Timber Industries Employees' Union is troubled and dismayed at the injury and deaths of workers from accidents involving open-top vehicles year after year. Workers have a right to safe work places, decent and hygienic housing, and safe transport.
Businesses must worry about costs and profitability. That is fair, but it is not a reason for taking the safety of workers less seriously than they should.
It is convenient to fault workers and drivers for the accidents. While they may be at fault in cases, the issue is about employers practising due diligence for key aspects of the safety process; be it the choice of vehicle used, driving skills or passenger load.
We urge the authorities to reinforce these safety standards, and implement and enforce them rigorously without delay. The latest string of such mishaps requires urgent action.
Heng Chee How
Executive Secretary
Building, Construction and Timber Industries Employees' Union
Workers want urgent action
Straits Times, Jun 26, 2010
THE Building, Construction and Timber Industries Employees' Union is troubled and dismayed at the injury and deaths of workers from accidents involving open-top vehicles year after year. Workers have a right to safe work places, decent and hygienic housing, and safe transport.
Businesses must worry about costs and profitability. That is fair, but it is not a reason for taking the safety of workers less seriously than they should.
It is convenient to fault workers and drivers for the accidents. While they may be at fault in cases, the issue is about employers practising due diligence for key aspects of the safety process; be it the choice of vehicle used, driving skills or passenger load.
We urge the authorities to reinforce these safety standards, and implement and enforce them rigorously without delay. The latest string of such mishaps requires urgent action.
Heng Chee How
Executive Secretary
Building, Construction and Timber Industries Employees' Union
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