The Department of Labour recorded four deaths at workplace in the fiscal year 2023-2024 with two cases each in Thimphu and Wangdue. An additional 13 injuries were reported from seven other districts. A significant discrepancy is observed between the number of cases reported to the department and the one reflected in the Annual Health Bulletin which noted over 21,000 injury cases in the same period.
Though the report saw a decline in the number of workplace accidents compared to 38 the previous fiscal year, the department’s latest annual report highlights a significant underreporting issue.
The report attributes the underreporting to several factors, including workers’ fear of negative repercussions from employers, lack of awareness about their rights, and limited understanding of the importance of reporting accidents. Additionally, inadequate knowledge of reporting procedures further hindered the process.
The labour department emphasises that reporting workplace accidents is crucial for improving safety standards.
The report highlights that accurate data helps identify the causes of accidents, ensures employees receive due compensation for economic losses and medical expenses, and fosters safer work environments.
Without comprehensive data, the department faces challenges in forming an accurate picture of workplace safety and health required to protect workers and reduce public health costs.
The report also shows that, out of 297 complaints received by the department in the period, 136 were related to occupational health and safety which is the highest among all categories.
The report highlights the importance of preventing workplace accidents outlining its negative impacts such as disruption of work and financial losses for the company among others.
The four reported deaths occurred due to electrocution, falling and getting hit by falling object.
Employers paid over Nu 1.4 M in compensation to employees who suffered injuries or fatalities due to workplace accidents according to the report.
Sangay Chozom
Edited by Kipchu
