THE EDITOR, Sir:
I WAS deeply saddened to see that the number of publicised deaths as a result of an accident at sugar factories in Jamaica had increased from one to two in such a short space of time.
However, I am equally heartened by the fact that the trade unions are calling for an audit of safety practices at the island's sugar factories.
This brings me to a concern that I have had for some time as it relates to safety on a whole in the work place.
Over the past couple of years, I have worked in a number of laboratories in Jamaica (both in the private and public sector) and have found that there is a consistent disregard for the safety of workers in these institutions.
I have had horrible experiences of working without air-conditioning for an extended period of time (in a building in which windows should remain closed), and in a building where air circulation was so poor that workers experienced problems with their eyes and respiratory system.
On another occasion, while working at a factory I was almost knocked over by a forklift as there was nothing to alert me that it was coming until the vehicle was almost on top of me.
Employers must be aware of the safety of staff regardless of how profit may be affected.
What role does the government play in ensuring that employers adhere to safety guidelines How aware are employees of their right to a safe working environment? Where can they obtain such information?
I believe that it is high time for us in Jamaica to do away with our reactionary attitude and become more proactive in our thinking.
After all, are we not the very same people who say 'prevention betta dan' cure?'
I am, etc.,
PAILA ADAMS
paulaadams@hotmail.com
Portmore, St. Catherine
Via Go-Jamaica
