The International Textile, Garment and Leather Workers' Federation (ITGLWF) has expressed concern over the poor working conditions in Bangladesh's textile and clothing industry and urged Prime Minister Khaleda Zia to take necessary measures.
In a letter to the prime minister, General Secretary of the Brussels-based ITGLWF Neil Kearney expressed concern at Bangladesh's appalling safety record. "This year, four appalling accidents occurred in the space of only two weeks," he mentioned.
The working conditions in textile industry in Bangladesh came to the surface again as the ITGLWF observed first anniversary of the Spectrum factory collapse Tuesday that killed 64 workers and injured many others.
Working conditions in Bangladesh also became an issue of concern as no less than four accidents took place here between February and March. Many trade union federations have protested against the working conditions leading to frequent accidents.
Neil Kearney in his letter referred to the fire incident at the KTS garments that killed 61 workers and left about 100 injured and the five-storied Phoenix Building collapse that left 22 workers dead and 50 injured, and said: "What made these accidents even more painful was that they were prevented from safe working practices."
Kearney urged Khaleda Zia to ensure structural and fire safety in the textile and clothing sector.
He said a total review of the existing legislation on structural safety, fire safety, health safety and general labour rights is needed urgently to ensure that no more lives are lost.
ITGLWF also said all production units have to hold a certificate on structural soundness by 30 June this year to ensure safety at all factories.
Sources said ITGLWF opened an independent inquiry into the disasters casting a tragic shadow over the textile and clothing industry in Bangladesh.
