By Kimberly Giddings | December 4, 2024
The Ministry of Labour’s Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department has reported a concerning increase in fatalities in workplaces this year, with 27 deaths recorded so far, surpassing the 23 fatalities reported in 2023.
Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, expressed his concerns during an interview with NCN News, emphasizing the need for continued safety awareness on worksites.
He stated that the ministry is working diligently with Occupational Safety and Health officers to tackle this issue, with additional efforts focused on training and engagement with both the public and private sectors.
The Minister highlighted that the ministry now has more officers stationed across all regions of Guyana, ensuring broader coverage and increased safety standards.
In addition to physical safety, Minister Hamilton underscored the critical importance of mental health in the workplace.
He stressed that employers have a responsibility to protect not only the physical well-being of their staff but also their mental health.
To further address this, the Ministry of Labour is set to collaborate with the Ministry of Health in 2025 to enhance mental health training for workers.
The ministry continues to encourage all employers and workers to remain vigilant and proactive in prioritizing both physical and mental safety on worksites.