The report on the Ministry of Labour investigation into the May 20th power failure at Qualfon’s Goedverwagting call centre, which resulted in over a dozen workers being rushed to hospital, is still not available, says the Ministry of Labour.
The Minister of Labour Dr Nanda Gopaul told Stabroek News yesterday that the report on the investigation by his ministry into the mechanical ventilation system at the Qualfon Goedverwagting call centre is still to be completed. Gopaul said the Labour Officer responsible for compiling the report was on sick leave and therefore the report was not completed. He further stated his disappointment at the delay of the report.
This newspaper made several attempts over the past two weeks to ascertain the findings and recommendations of the report from the Chief Labour Officer Charles Ogle, who other labour officers said is the only one in the ministry permitted to speak to the media. This newspaper was told that Ogle was in meetings or was not available.
“Qualfon followed up with the Ministry on Monday, and they are still concluding their investigation. As such, we have not yet received the Ministry’s report. Once we receive the report, Qualfon will reach out to the media so we can share their recommendations and our comprehensive response plan. Rest assured that Qualfon will make any and all needed improvements to ensure the health and safety of our employees,” the company said to Stabroek News through its public relations department.
Half of an hour after the 4pm shift had begun on May 20th, power failed at the call centre and its back-up power supply failed to start. Some of the employees were soon after seen screaming and panting for breath, while others were writhing on the floor.
More than 18 workers were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital. Some were conscious, while others emerged from vehicles in a state of panic. Nevertheless all employees were treated and sent away by the health facility. The hospital had diagnosed that the workers’ fainting spells were due to the lack of sufficient oxygen when the mechanical ventilation system and the back-up power source failed.
The Guyana Fire Service had stated that the workers were affected because the evacuation efforts were not done in a timely manner.
