Some construction companies have been identified for not following OHS regulations at work sites and this is a huge concern.

While not naming the companies, the Construction Industry Council says the problem needs to be addressed urgently.
CIC President Gordon Jenkins says the lack of adherence of OHS regulations – including basic safety procedures by some construction companies is a concern.

“If you’re welding you’re supposed to have proper glasses and if you’re high on scaffolding then quite often you need to have a harness and another bad thing here is scaffolding.”

Meanwhile, Employment Minister Jone Usamate has called on construction companies to take OHS regulations seriously.

“Spending money in OHS is an investment into the business itself. So organizations need to take that first step if off-course they don’t then the Ministry steps in and we issue penalties and so forth.”

International Labour Organization’s Director for pacific island countries, Donglin Li says construction companies must meet OHS standards.

He says companies and workers must adhere to the OHS rules and regulations to ensure safety within work premises are maintained at all times.