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Herald Reporter
AT least 49 people have died while 3 641 others sustained serious injuries at their workplaces so far this year alone. The statistics were revealed yesterday during a national conference on safety and health at work which was organised by the National Social Security Authority (NSSA).
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Cde Nicholas Goche, who was the guest speaker at the conference, emphasised the need to undertake labour reforms in the country and avert the loss of lives at workplaces.

“There is heightened need to undertake labour reforms in Zimbabwe,” said Minister Goche. “Our industry has reached a defining moment as we seek to give it impetus in the right direction.”

He said the statistics on fatalities and injuries at workplaces recorded so far were a cause for concern, adding that measures should be taken to reduce work-related accidents. “My ministry has reached an advanced stage to finalise the Occupational Safety Health Bill and once proclaimed into law, it will positively influence the course of occupational safety and health in Zimbabwe,” he said. “We are nearing completion of the formulation of the occupational safety and health policy, a process which was long overdue.”

Minister Goche said his ministry was seized with the task of re-aligning the country’s labour laws with the international best practice in an effort to preserve the health of the workforce. NSSA general manager Mr James Matiza said corporate institutions should prioritise the health and safety of workers within their respective institutions.

“We strive to see a preventive culture being upheld in industry,” said Mr Matiza adding, “Let us embrace a culture of zero tolerance to accidents and diseases at work and I urge companies to take a leaf from each other to achieve better safety records.”