Karachi
A team of physicians and surgeons to examine factory and mine workers on a regular basis was constituted by the Sindh Labour Department, a senior official announced on Sunday.
The medical practitioners would submit the reports to concerned authorities on a weekly basis in order for the government to initiate a full-fledged health security programme for the labourers.
Talking to journalists following a walk organised to raise awareness among workers and managers of industrial units, provincial secretary for labour affairs, Abdul Rasheed Solangi said it was on the directives of Advisor to Chief Minister on Labour Affairs Asghar Ali Khan Junejo that stringent measures were being taken for the protection of the workers.
He stressed on taking effective measures to prevent lung infections including silicosis – caused due to excessive exposure to dust particles. He claimed that ensuring strict compliance with laws providing protection to workers of both industrial and agricultural sectors was among the priorities of the provincial labour department. Responding to a question Sindh Labour Affairs Director Mustafa Suhag said unchecked exposure to hazardous fumes and dust due to non-availability of protective gears was being seriously taken up by the government.
“Our teams are regularly visiting industrial units to ensure that workers are not exposed to serious conditions and those failing to comply with the laws are being taken to task,” he further claimed. He said Sindh Social Security Hospitals were also being upgraded to provide workers with immediate medical support, while regular sessions were also being organised for workers and managers to sensitise them regarding hazards associated with smoking.