Minister of State for Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development Dr. Abdulla Nazeer has underscored the crucial importance of ensuring healthy work environments. The remarks were made by the state minister during the inaugural ceremony of the Occupational Safety and Health Forum. The forum was organised by Maldives Airport Company Limited (MACL).
Speaking at the ceremony, State Minister Dr. Nazeer highlighted the raising sizzling temperatures worldwide, following climate change. The state minister observed that most of the employee's of the nation are used to work in the average heat temperatures, posing them to significant health effects. Hence, he stated that employees, especially those working in the heat, must be aware of such issues.
Furthermore, State Minister Dr. Nazeer said that all employers must ensure that the work environment does not negatively impact the health of employees. The state minister emphasised the necessity of drafting an emergency procedure or plan to implement during natural disasters or incidents due to climate change. He additionally stressed the significance of all employers to formulate Health Safety Regulations, adding that efforts are unerway by the Ministry of State for Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development to amend the Act, such that it mandates all employers to draft Health Safety Regulations.
During the ceremony, Managing Director and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MACL Ibrahim Shareef stated that the staff working at the air terminals have to work in hot temperatures. The CEO added that the increasing temperatures will undoubtedly affect the employees. Therefore, he also stated that an awareness programme must be held, reiterating that the forum aims to assist in increasing awareness.
This year, the forum's theme is Climate Change and Safety and Health at Work. This theme focuses on establishing a healthy work environment and protecting one's health, despite climate change. MACL revealed that they have provided information on the negative impacts on health due to climate change and also provided tips to protect themselves or reduce the health issues faced due to climate change. A panel discussion has been held within the forum, to provide more information on the issue. Information was provided by experts in the field. The forum was attended by the Maldives National University (MNU), Health Protection Agency (HPA) and the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy.
MACL had previously also organised a similar forum on April 28, 2023.