Ensure workers’ safety, employers told

“Companies should pay more attention to workers’ safety and security at workplace, failing which they will invite stringent action,” Ahmed Ibrahim al Ajmi, Human Rights Consultant, has said.

The advice follows a ministerial decision in the wake of a workplace accident that killed an expatriate worker and injured three at a mall construction site in Mawaleh on Tuesday.

According to him, workers’ safety should be of utmost importance during work hours and all necessary medical and other facilities should be provided to the manpower.

“Workers should be given all the necessary support to carry out his/ her duties effectively. Safety gear should be provided to all employees, failing which the Ministry of Manpower can initiate action against companies,” he said. Similarly, the workplace must support good health by promoting healthy food and physical activity in the workplace and enhance psychological health and social integration of workers.

Insurance against accidents is part of the human rights. It must be part of the employment contract so that employees are saved from the dangers at work, according to him.

According to Article 15 of the Ministerial Decision no. 286/2008, issued by the Ministry of Manpower, the employer must take all necessary steps to provide adequate protection for workers’ safety at the workplace.