Understand The Hazards To Prevent Workplace Injuries
“This requires understanding risk elements within the workplace and working proactively.”
Saturday 27 April 2019 | 10:00
Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations Parveen Bala with participants during the 2019 National Conference On Occupational Health and Safety at the Novotel Convention Centre, Lami, on April 26, 2019. Photo: Simione Haravanua
We can only prevent workplace injuries and illnesses if we have the foresight to understand what the new work hazards will be, says Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations Parveen Bala.
He made the remarks as he officiated the 2019 National Conference on Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) at the Novotel Suva Lami Bay yesterday.
Mr Bala said the conference provided participants with an interactive platform to explore, share and discuss concepts and issues related to issues of concern with OHS in Fiji.
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“With new technologies, shifting demographics and the rise of new challenges from extreme weather events and resultant climate change, we must anticipate new and emerging work-related safety and health risks,” he said.
“This requires understanding risk elements within the workplace and working proactively.”
He also announced that the National Safety Awards for Excellence in OHS will now be an annual feature of the conference.
“The objective of this awards programme is to promote a culture of safety and health at the workplace,” he said.
The event also commemorated the World Day of Safety and Health at Work which is formally observed on April 28.
The Fiji Institute of Workplace Health and Safety was also launched at the event.
Edited by Susana Tuilau
