Dear Editor
Another workplace accident at a wharf, with strands of similarity of another accident in the workplace (wharf) a while ago, when an off duty employee was killed. In this current case, it has to be wondered why was the deceased employee riding his bicycle in the work area? It has to be reasoned this might not be the first time the employee has done this. Only this time with deadly consequences. It has also to be wondered, how cognizant was the operator of the machine/equipment, of the goings on in the area he was operating in? Both parties had an equal responsibility for the observance of safety practices in the work environment. Sadly, this was not the case.
Too often employees in these work environment take chances unnoticed by other employees with a tangible lack of diligence and observation. These chances can be deemed reckless and careless. Now a life has been lost, now due diligence and investigations will take hold. Now protocols will be reviewed and revised, where and as necessary. Too late shall be the cry. Workplace accidents are too frequent and speak of a poor understanding of safety and health practices in the work environment. This must be stamped out. Lax safety and health practices on work sites will continue to result in injuries and deaths. Grieving families and loved ones will continue to bear the brunt of this. Condolences to family members and colleagues.
Sincerely,
Shamshun Mohamed
