Workplace Safety for Skilled Workers in Bangladesh

Initial Training: New workers must receive detailed training on the correct methods for their job, the tools and equipment they will use, and any hazardous materials or processes. Training must cover accident risks, safe work methods, what to do in emergencies, and the necessity of using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Refresher Training: Regular safety awareness training should be organized for all workers (e.g., annually). Training must be provided if new equipment, new processes, or new risks are introduced. Quality of Training: Training should not just be lectures. It is effective only if workers understand correctly through practice and Q&A sessions. Training should be given in the workers' own language.

Healthy & Safe Environment: The workplace must be kept clean and tidy. Oil, grease, water, debris, or other hazardous substances should not be on the floor. Narrow passages, uneven floors, and cluttered areas increase accident risks. Lighting and airflow should be good. Safety of Equipment & Tools: All machines, tools, and equipment must be properly maintained and stored. Safety guards, Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, and safety switches must always be functional. Faulty equipment must not be used. Management of Hazardous Materials/Processes: If hazardous chemicals, gases, fumes, or noise are used, controls must be in place. Examples include controlling the concentration of toxic substances in the air, protecting against heat from hot surfaces, and using ear protection for high noise levels. Emergency Measures: Fire extinguishers, first aid boxes, and emergency exits must always be clear and usable. Everyone must know their locations.

Mandatory Use: Workers must use necessary PPE when facing risks. Examples include: • Head Protection (Helmet) - For construction sites, lifting heavy objects. • Eye Protection (Safety Goggles) - To protect eyes from smoke, dust, splashes, or particles. • Respirator - To protect from toxic air, fumes, or gases. • Foot Protection (Safety Boots/Sandals/Shoes) - To protect feet from heavy objects, sharp materials, or liquids. • Hand Protection (Gloves) - To protect hands from cuts, hazardous liquids, hot or cold materials. • Body Protection (Apron/Uniform) - To protect the body from liquids, oil, fire, or hazardous chemicals. Suitability & Maintenance: PPE must be the correct size and suitable. It must be cleaned and replaced regularly. Damaged PPE must not be used.

Responsible Person: Each workplace should have a designated Safety Officer responsible for supervising compliance with safety rules. Regular Inspections: Owners or directors have the responsibility to identify and resolve safety issues through regular workplace inspections. Risk Assessment: Before starting any new equipment, process, or task, assess the risks and take steps to prevent potential accidents. Warnings & Rules: Warning signs (e.g., "Dangerous Area," "Wear Helmet," "Electrical Hazard") must be placed in all hazardous areas. Safety rules must be written and communicated to everyone. Listen to Concerns: If workers report safety problems, they must be taken seriously and resolved. Their opinions should be sought.

Follow Rules: Comply with all safety rules, training, and supervisor instructions. Use PPE: Always wear necessary PPE before starting work. Check Equipment: Before using any machine, check that it works correctly and has safety guards. Report any problems to the supervisor immediately. Keep Area Clean: Keep your own work area clean. Clutter can cause accidents. Report Unusual Things: If you notice unusual noise, smell, heat, or any problem with equipment, stop work immediately and report it to the supervisor. Never operate potentially dangerous equipment. Fatigue or Illness: Being overly tired, sick, or under medication increases accident risk. Avoid working in such conditions. Cooperation: Participate in safety workshops. Help colleagues work safely. Report any risks you see to everyone.

Ensure Your Own Safety First: Going to the accident scene could put you at risk. Make sure you are not in danger (e.g., from electricity, fire, falling objects). If there is danger, send someone else. Call for Emergency Help: • Move the Injured (If Safe): If it is very easy and safe to do so (e.g., moving away from fire or electricity), move the injured person to a safe place. Do not attempt to move them if there are other risks. • First Aid: If you have first aid knowledge, provide simple aid if possible (e.g., bandaging bleeding, assisting breathing). Do not attempt complex first aid or move someone with serious injuries as it can be risky. • Call Emergency Number: Call emergency services immediately. In Bangladesh, the ambulance emergency number is 999. • Inform Office/Supervisor: At the same time, inform your office or supervisor about the incident. They can take further action. Secure the Scene: Prevent other workers from entering the scene or moving/changing things. This is vital for later investigation. If there is fire or electrical risk, arrange to shut off the relevant equipment or power supply (if safe to do so).

Medical Treatment: Take the injured person to a hospital or clinic quickly. Do not wait for unknown reasons. Inform the hospital about the accident. Keep all medical records. These may be needed for compensation or other arrangements later. Gather Information: Once things are calm and safe, write down details of the incident: what happened, when, where, how? Collect information from other workers who witnessed the incident. Note their names and contact details. Report the Incident: You must report the incident to your supervisor, manager, or the designated safety person, either in writing or verbally. According to Bangladeshi labor law, deaths, loss of limbs, or specified serious injuries in the workplace must be reported to the appropriate authorities. Investigation: After the incident, it is the responsibility of the owner or management to conduct a proper investigation to find the exact cause (human, equipment, environmental) and prevent it from happening again. Compensation & Assistance: According to Bangladeshi labor law and regulations, injured or deceased workers or their families may be entitled to compensation. You should apply to your employer/management for this. Government or non-government assistance may also be available.

Stay constantly alert to safety issues. Learn from past incidents. Safety workshops, warning signs, and regular reminders all help increase awareness.

Regular maintenance of equipment, tools, and the environment is extremely important. Fix small problems immediately. While preventive maintenance costs more upfront, it saves much more than the cost of accidents and damage.

Being prepared for emergencies is crucial. The emergency number should be known by all. Emergency exits must always be clear and unobstructed. First aid boxes and fire extinguishers must always be available.

Safety is not just management's responsibility; it's everyone's. Workers must be responsible, and supervisors must listen to worker concerns. Building a safe work culture requires everyone's cooperation.

Adhering to Bangladeshi labor law, factory acts, and various safety rules is a legal duty, but it is also essential to protect workers' lives and health.