Healthcare at workplace a fundamental right

Law Minister Anisul Haque said healthcare and safety at the workplace are a fundamental right of every worker, reports UNB.
The minister while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting on the National Occupational Health and Safety Day organised by the Ministry of Labour and Employment highlighted the importance of a safe and decent working environment for the realisation of this right.
This year's theme for the day was 'Ensure a decent working environment, build a smart Bangladesh.'
He stressed that the observance of safety rules at workplaces and ensuring a decent working environment are crucial for sustainable development.
He emphasised ensuring occupational safety in factories saying and establishments are not solely the responsibility of the government or factory owners. Instead, it has become a liability for the factory owners.
The Bangladesh Labour Act and Bangladesh Labour Regulations mandate that workplaces be safe and dignified for workers, and this requirement is now recognised internationally, he said.
As Bangladesh moves towards becoming a developed country, occupational safety should be given great importance, he added.
The minister urged all stakeholders, including workers, owners, and the government, to work in unison to establish occupational health and safety as a national culture.
He also underlined the need for joint initiatives to ensure a decent working environment, including the proper implementation of the Bangladesh Labour Act and Bangladesh Labor Rules.
He called for working sincerely towards ensuring a decent working environment for workers.
The implementation of these measures will go a long way in protecting workers' rights and promoting sustainable development in Bangladesh, he added.