Around four in five migrant construction labourers in the capital work in risky environments and without any safety measures, according to a study carried out by Refugee and Migratory Movements Research Unit (RMMRU).
The report says construction workers are vulnerable to occupational accidents including inadequate safety equipment or training, exposure to harmful chemicals and hazardous conditions, exposure to noise and dust, and an absence of proper toilet facilities.
RMMRU presented “Impact of Migration on Poverty: Construction Workers in Bangladesh” at a stakeholders’ consultation on migrant construction workers in Bangladesh at Brac Centre in the capital on Tuesday.
According to Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, a total of 2.6 million people across the country work in the construction sector. The RMRRU says almost half of these ( 51%) work in Dhaka district.
The study covers nine spots including Badda, Mirpur, Mohammadpur, and Nikunja, and it was conducted in November and December last year. After interviewing 150 workers, it was found that 80% have not seen any safety signs at their workplace.
Most of the construction workers suffer from various health problems including fever, allergy, back-pain, cough, depression and eye strain, and most live under unhygienic conditions.
At least 80% stated that when they fall ill they secure medicines from pharmacies, effectively meaning self-medication.
The study also reveals 95% workers have no knowledge about the national labour law, 94% were not aware of any collective bargaining, and 73% favoured forming a trade union. At least 77% workers say there are no inspections of their workplace.
Speaking as the chief guest of the report launch, Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Labour Ministry Md. Israfil Alam MP said the inspection of workplaces had to be strengthened. He also urged the labour leaders to study the labour law.
The study recommends ensuring safe and secure accommodation facilities and proper implementation of the labour law for construction workers.
RMMRU Executive Director CR Abrar, the and Research and Communications Officer Md. Selim Reza, presented the keynote paper of the study.
Other attendees included former labour and employment secretary Mahfuzul Huq, Building Technology and Ideas Managing Director FR Khan, and North South University teacher ATM Nurul Amin.
