KARACHI, May 4: Occupational health and safety at workplace as well as good working conditions are primary concerns of the government. This was stated by Director-General of National Institute of Labour Administration and Training, Syed Hakim Ali Shah Bukhari, while speaking at the inaugural session of the seminar on “Occupational Health and Safety,” here on Wednesday.

The day-long moot was organized by the NILAT in collaboration with the All Pakistan Trade Union Congress.

He said that the seminar would enhance knowledge and awareness among the participants including government employees, trade union leaders, representatives of NGOs, women organizations and media.

Mr Bukhari said that both management and workers must change their attitude for securing environment at the workplaces to improve efficiency of employees and enhance industrial productivity. “This is the need of the hour for the successful competition in global economy,” he added.

NILAT Director Syed Ghayoorul Hasan stressed the need for necessary awareness leading to the reduction of industrial accidents, better health care of workers, congenial atmosphere for a satisfying workplace.

Mr Hasan said that the new trend in ISO quality and environmental standards, including ISO 9000, ISO 14000 and Socially Accountability Standards, and S.A. 8000, required Pakistani industries to brace themselves with these matters for competitive performance in home and abroad.

The secretary-general of All Pakistan Trade Union Congress, Shaukat Ali, said that safety was the most important aspect of daily working and services connected with it should be provided adequately.

Mr Ali said that the trade union, irrespective Of limitations, seemed to be conscious of their responsibilities. The unions complained that they were not associated in the task, he added.

The employers had not established the bilateral forums at enterprise level, which could deal with improving the working conditions and occupational health and safety, he added.

Kaleem Akhter said that adequate provision on occupational health and safety had been provided in Factories Act, 1934 and Mine Act, 1923. He said that there was need for the implementation of these laws and practical measures should be taken to improve the inspection system of factories and mines.

C.L. Nankani, Eng Syed

Ali Ashraf, Noorul Hadi,

Dr Asad Jamil and others also presented papers in the seminar.—PPI/APP