We are deeply saddened by the loss of life resulting from an explosion and fire at Tampaco Foils Limited in Bangladesh on 10 September 2016. On behalf of the International Labour Organization (ILO), I would like to extend our sympathy to the families of the victims. We wish those injured a full and speedy recovery.

There have been major efforts to enhance workplace safety over the past three and a half years in Bangladesh, mainly focusing on the ready-made garment sector.

Significant work has also been directed towards enhancing the capacity of the Fire Service and Civil Defence Department, as well as the country’s labour inspectorate - improved working conditions and safety standards across all industrial sectors also depend on strengthening these organizations.

Despite progress, the incident at Tampaco Foils highlights that there can be no room for complacency and much ground still needs to be covered. Strengthening the capacity of regulatory oversight bodies is key as is the need to bring together diverse stakeholders to establish a stronger culture of preventative safety in all industrial sectors.

The ILO is ready to further support Bangladesh’s efforts to ensure the safety of its workers.