Guyana records 37% decline in workplace fatalities from 2020-2023

– deaths for 2024 significantly higher than previous years – Min Hamilton

Over the past four years, Guyana has seen a significant reduction in workplace fatalities but according to Labour Minister, Joseph Hamilton, more deaths were already recorded in 2024 when compared to the previous three years.
In 2020, there were 32 deaths followed by 27 in 2021, 21 in 2022 and 20 in 2023. The minister did not divulge any details for 2024.
Most of these accidents occurred in the mining, construction, agriculture and manufacturing sectors.
“Over three years, we have moved from 32 deaths in that area and now 20 deaths, that should not have happened… at least most of them in my view…Every death is a person, it’s not a statistic, somebody’s child, husband, father, set of people mourning and so for me, I don’t treat these as statistics and that is why we are doing everything possible to ensure that this can be reduced to zero,” Hamilton had previously stated.
A few days ago, 58-year-old Sherman Tang was pinned and killed by a falling tree at Quartz Stone Backdam, Cuyuni River, Region Seven.
Referring to Tang’s death, Hamilton stated “We need to act now” while emphasising the need for the implementation of protective measures to prevent workplace accidents.

“This situation causes me great concern and should be the same for our tripartite partners and key stakeholders. Indeed, it is quite obvious that we need to act now. Decisive actions need to be taken to prevent workplace accidents and safeguard the well-being of the workers in this beloved country of ours.”
This, the minister explained will require participation from the government and all stakeholders including the employers who will need to collaborate closely to develop, implement and maintain comprehensive strategies for safety and health protocols, adequate training for the enforcement of safety and health regulations, proper equipment maintenance and fostering a culture of safety among all stakeholders.
“Let us rise to the challenges and increase our efforts to create safer and healthier workplaces for all…together we can make a difference and build a future where every worker can go to work and return home safely at the end of the work day or work period.” Hamilton stated.
However, as Guyana observes Occupational Health and Safety Month 2024, under the theme “Ensuring safe and healthy work now in a changing climate: We are running out of time,” the minister emphasised the urgent need to prioritise safety and health in workplaces with regards climate change.
“Climate Change is already having serious impacts on the world of work, and workers, particularly at risk, are those who work outdoors in physically demanding sectors such as agriculture, construction and mining, however indoor workers in hot and poorly ventilated environments, and other workers are also at risk.”
Several activities were planned in observance of Occupational Safety and Health Month including exhibitions, visits to workplaces including mining camps and others. The month culminated with an awareness walk on Sunday which saw hundreds joining the ministry in promoting and maintaining a safe working environment.