To help reduce workplace accidents and ensure timely compensation to those injured due to work-related accidents, three new Occupational Health and Safety guidelines were launched in the capital, today. The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment in collaboration with JICA launched the guidelines. Over 150 representatives from the private sector, corporations, and government agencies have been trained on the three guidelines, so far.
The three guidelines are Accident Understanding Guidelines, Occupational Diseases Investigation Guidelines, and Worker Compensation Guidelines.
The Accident Investigation Guidelines are intended to improve workplace safety by understanding the causes of accidents and to bring about accountability.
Occupational Disease Investigation Guidelines are designed to detect diseases early in workplaces, raise awareness, and promote preventive measures.
Meanwhile, the Worker Compensation Guidelines ensure workers receive fair and timely compensation for work-related injuries and illnesses.
According to the industry, commerce and employment ministry, 38 workplace accidents were reported between 2022 and 2023.
The construction sector has the highest workplace accidents followed by the manufacturing sector.
“The cases reported with the Department of Labour are only 38 and I would say it is only the tip of the iceberg. In reality, the accident rate in workplaces is much higher. So, these guidelines will help in addressing the shortcomings and lapses where agencies are not reporting occupational accidents to the Department of Labour,” said Phuntsho Dendup, Senior Labour Officer.
He added that falling from heights followed by electrocution is one of the highest causes of accidents in the construction sector.
According to the ministry, the guidelines are also expected to help develop and formulate evidence-based policies in Occupational Health and Safety.
It will also help determine the root cause of accidents and protect the well-being and welfare of workers.
The emphasis on Occupational Health and Safety in the country began with the enactment of the Labour and Employment Act of Bhutan 2007.
Tashi Dekar
Edited by Sherub Dorji
