The Safety, Health and Environment National Authority (SHENA) and the Occupational Health Division, Ministry of Health recorded three deaths and 131 workplace injuries in the construction sector last year, SHENA Chief Executive Officer Haji Muhsin bin Haji Ahmad said.
The risk of accidents can be reduced and prevented if safety aspects are implemented systemically, he said in his opening remarks at the muzakarah session with penghulus and village heads in the Brunei-Muara and Temburong districts at a hotel yesterday. In light of the cases, he said, “SHENA, in cooperation with government agencies and the private sector, have made efforts through several approaches and methods to improve safety at the workplace.”
Haji Muhsin added, “It is hoped that penghulus and village heads play a vital role in monitoring and take action when an unsafe work behaviour occurs, such as renovation or construction work whether in private or public premises.
“Concern and immediate action can help prevent accidents in the workplace and even save lives.
“SHENA is ready to cooperate and provide commitment to take reasonable follow up action.
“However, reports from penghulus and village heads are the key to ensuring that we can implement effective prevention together, thus being able to address safety issues before they become more serious and severe.”
The muzakarah sessions also underscored the ‘whole-of-nation’ approach in realising Brunei Vision 2035.
Permanent Secretary (Municipal and District) at the Ministry of Home Affairs Abdul Walid bin Haji Matassan was the guest of honour at the first muzakarah session. – James Kon
