As one of the industries hardest hit by the pandemic, the construction sector can build back better by investing in occupational safety and health (OSH) measures that effectively protect its workers from COVID-19. Such investments to prevent of the spread of coronavirus in workplaces also means that the industry can minimize disruptions to business operations and support economic recovery.
These were among the key messages delivered during a recent International Labour Organization (ILO) panel discussion for construction worker and employer representatives as well as government policymakers from across the Caribbean.
“While OSH has always been essential to construction work sites, the COVID-19 crisis has exposed areas for improvement because of the unprecedented challenges that it has created,” explained Ariel Pino, ILO Caribbean Social Protection and Occupational Safety and Health Specialist, who coordinated the session. “Greater investments are needed to boost OSH preparedness, response and recovery policies that prevent and control the spread of the virus. This not only keeps workers safe from the virus but also protects their families and communities once they return home from work.”
Tailored to the needs of workers, employers and policymakers in the regional construction sector, the ILO Caribbean panel was developed in collaboration with Labour Administration, Labour Inspection and Occupational Safety and Health Branch at ILO headquarters in Geneva.
“Occupational safety and health doesn’t happen by chance. It requires employers, workers and governments to work together to develop and implement OSH systems that eliminate and substitute workplace hazards,” said Andrew Christian, Technical Specialist on Labour Inspection and Occupational Safety and Health at ILO headquarters, who co-facilitated the session.
“In the context of COVID-19, the ILO has produced a construction sector OSH action checklist that prioritizes policy planning and organization; risk assessment management and communication; prevention and mitigation measures; and arrangements for health surveillance, including the identification and monitoring of suspected COVID-19 cases,” he continued.
Some of the specific control measures discussed during the 90-minute session included social distancing in accordance with national requirements; cleaning, hygiene and handwashing; adequate ventilation; health surveillance; consulting and providing information to workers; and staying up to date with national requirements.
