Labourers’ safety goes for a toss at construction sites

Tribune News Service

Bathinda, November 20

Safety norms for labourers go for a toss at a majority of under-construction buildings in the city as these structures do not have proper safety equipment.

With labourers from other states pouring in to cater to the rising demand for labour, the absence of precautions and negligence on part of the authorities has put the lives of many construction workers at risk.

Safety guidelines for construction work are being flouted with impunity as most workers work under hazardous conditions at these sites.

Safety equipment, such as helmets and safety shoes, are mandatory while working at construction sites. Also, labourers who work at heights are required to wear safety belts and those engaged in welding need to protect their eyes. But hardly any employer in the city adheres to these norms.

With the construction of a number of multi-storey buildings and various roads under progress, the need for implementing these guidelines is being felt all the more.

Though officials and contractors concerned appear conscious of the quality of work, nobody seems to bother about how the workers fare. As per the rules, all necessary protective equipment is necessary for the use of persons employed on the site and maintained in a condition suitable for immediate use.

A labourer, on the condition of anonymity, said “There is always a chance of something unfortunate happening at the construction site. We are immigrant labourers and we fear asking the contractor to give us protective gear, lest he throws us out of the project. There are thousands like us who are waiting to get the jobs.”

A contractor also claimed that they know there is risk in such things, but have no choice. Some workers consider helmets, boots and gloves a hindrance in working comfortably. “We cannot force them to wear these safety equipment,” he added.