Rodacil Construction stops work after accident

Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana has issued a stern warning to the construction sector following the death of three workers in an accident at a construction site near Mayfair west of Johannesburg early Sunday.

 

Two other workers were also injured when a wall they were busy working on gave in and collapsed.

 

Minister Mdladlana sent his condolences to the families of the deceased and further called for a speedy investigation into the accident.

 

The Department Investigation Team -who were immediately dispatched to the scene- slapped a prohibition order on the employer - Rodacil Construction - halting all work activities on the construction site pending investigations.

 

The Police Forensic Team has also been roped into the investigations to determine if the incident constitutes a case of foul play.

 

Meanwhile, Department of Labour inspectors will tomorrow interview the employer, the supervisor and any other witnesses.

 

Part of the investigation will include a probe into the nature of the construction business that the employer was licensed for and whether relevant safety measures were in place during the accident.

 

The inspectors will also study documents to establish whether the affected workers were employed legally in South Africa and to see if the employer was registered with the Compensation Fund and the Unemployed Insurance Fund.

 

The Minister sent a stern warning to employers who deliberately disregard workers? safety.

 

"This year our labour inspectors will continue to ensure that employers in the construction industry comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations. It's unacceptable that between 2001 and 2002 alone a total of 150 workers were killed while on duty in the construction industry while a further 70 workers are injured on a daily basis within the sector", said Minister Mdladlana

 

"My Department is determined to once again go out in full force in 2004 to ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations in workplaces around the country. We will continue with our campaign to stamp out defaulters until such a time that safety is a priority for every employer and workers can work in a safe environment", the Minister said