Occupational Safety and Health Month 2024 kicked off today with a resounding call to action from the Ministry of Labour, under the theme “We are running out of time: Ensuring Safety and Health in a Changing Climate.” Minister Joseph Hamilton led the ceremony, highlighting the urgent need to address workplace safety amidst escalating climate change impacts.
In his address, Minister Hamilton underscored the importance of prioritizing safety and health in the face of evolving environmental challenges. “We need to be united in our commitment to promoting and maintaining good workplace safety and health practices. Collaboration among governments, trade unions, workers, employers and key stakeholders is critical to our efforts,” he emphasized.
The Guyanese leader explained that the theme for this year’s observance reflects the pressing need to adapt to changing environmental conditions and implement robust safety measures to protect workers across various sectors. Minister Hamilton reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to fostering collaboration among stakeholders to promote safety and minimize workplace accidents and fatalities.
Throughout the month, a series of initiatives will be rolled out to enhance awareness and capacity building in key sectors such as mining, construction, and agriculture. These include outreach programmes, inspection visits, and exhibitions aimed at promoting safety and health practices.
Minister Hamilton further emphasized the collaborative efforts between the government, trade unions, workers, employers, and other stakeholders in developing and implementing programs to raise awareness and promote safety and health at work. He stressed the significance of partnerships in fostering a culture of safety and minimizing workplace accidents and fatalities.
The month-long observance will feature a wide range of activities aimed at promoting awareness and fostering collaboration. These initiatives include outreach programs in mining communities, inspection visits to construction sites and agricultural sectors, and exhibitions to promote safety and health practices.
Collaboration with key agencies such as the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission and the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development will further enhance the reach and impact of these initiatives. Banners will be prominently displayed across all regions to reinforce safety messages to workers and the public.
Minister Hamilton reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to reducing workplace fatalities, with the ultimate goal of achieving zero deaths. He called for unity and collective action in shaping the future of safety and health at work, ensuring that every worker returns home safely at the end of the day.
As Occupational Safety and Health Month unfolds, Guyana stands poised to confront the challenges of a changing climate while fostering a culture of safety and well-being in the workplace. Stay tuned for more updates and insights as the Ministry leads the charge in promoting safety and health in a rapidly changing world.
