GEFONT observes 'International Commemoration Day'

Posted On - 28/04/2010

April 28- “International Commemoration Day-28 April” has been observed by International Labour Movement in memory of 28 workers, who lost life in an accident during construction of building in Bridgeport, USA on 28 April, 1987. In this day, Trade Unions all over the world rememorize the workers who died, injured or fell ill due to unsafe, unhealthy work and workplaces.

USA and Canada have been marking International Commemoration Day since 1989 and United Nations formally declared to mark it on 1996. On the Occasion of 15th International Commemoration Day, GEFONT extends sentimental tribute & heartfelt condolence to all workers and their families who lost life and wishes recovery to the injured ones.

Occupational accident and diseases have been increasing day by day. According to ILO, every year 2.2 million workers die due to work related accidents and1.7 million workers die due to occupational diseases whereas 27 million workers are injure by occupational accidents. Likewise, 1.7 million workers are affected by occupational diseases Lungs-infection due to dust is another cause of death. Miscarriage among women and male infertility have been witnessed among 1 hundred thousand workers every year.

Condition of our country is being more vulnerable compared to other countries.

Even Ministry of Health doesn’t have any reliable information on types of occupational diseases and death of workers from it. In Nepal, there is no medical doctor & even a single specialist on occupational disease.

In this context, GEFONT has been creating awareness to the member & working peoplepeople on occupational health and safety through its activities by training and mobilising them to minimise occupational disease.

GEFONT demanded to Nepal Government for banning of asbestos on the occasion of International Commemoration Day. GEFONT appeals all the workers to participate in this campaign and also demands with employers & Government to ensure for healthy and safe workplace to the working people employers and Government.