The Committee on Labour extends its condolences to the families of workers who died when a building collapsed in Gauteng yesterday. This happened at Meyersdal Eco Estate, Gauteng. About 7 employees died when a double-storey building collapsed and several others were seriously injured.
The Committee Chairperson, Ms Lumka Yengeni, says the accident is unfortunate and indicative of the recklessness which has plagued the construction industry in the recent past. “It appears occupational safety is disregarded in the construction sector, to the disadvantage of poor workers who in most instances earn a pittance. There are no consequences. The lives of the poor are not a consideration at all. It’s all about profits,” Ms Yengeni says.
The Chairperson wishes all survivors a speedy recovery. There must be a concerted effort to recover all employees who are still missing, adds Ms Yengeni. Ms Yengeni calls on the department to expedite investigation. Contractors involved should carry all the costs associated with burial and treatment of all concerned employees.
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