"The ILO introduced World Safety Day in 2003 and since 2016 we have started observing this day in Bangladesh. Workplace accidents and injuries occur due to lack of awareness of employers and workers. Our industrial growth and productivity will increase hastily if awareness on workplace safety can be enhanced," state minister for labour and employment, Mujibul Haque, said while handing over the award to representatives from Wisdom Attires, Fakir Fashion, Knit Concern, Hop Lun Apparels, Square Fashion, Snowtex Outwear, Ecotext, Tarasima Apparels, Viyellatex and AKH Eco Apparels, on the National Day on Occupational Safety and Health.

"Our government believes that a safe and healthy workforce is the pillar of sustainable development. This year on National OSH Day, we have introduced OSH Good Practice award for the first time to recognise business owners who have made proactive efforts to ensure welfare of employees," secretary of the minister of labour and employment, Afroza Khan, said.

"Knowledge and sharing of good practices is key to preventing workplace accidents and injuries. Therefore it is important that our employers and employees have good understanding about OSH practices. DIFE has formed an OSH unit to address structural, fire, electrical and ergonomic safety issues at workplaces. We are committed to ensure workplace safety through enhanced and effective inspection and awareness activities," said the inspector general of The Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments, Md. Shamsuzzaman Bhuiyan, said.

Gagan Rajbhandari, officer-in-charge of ILO Bangladesh commended Bangladesh government, DIFE, employers and workers organisations, the Fire Service, Accord and Alliance for their proactive approach in building a culture of workplace safety in Bangladesh. "This year marks the third time OSH Day is being celebrated in Bangladesh. It is heartening to see more organizations involved and a wide range of activities taking place around the country. I sincerely hope that this momentum continues. I also express our gratitude to Canada, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom for their continued support in improving working conditions in Bangladesh," added Rajbhandari. (RR)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India