Dear Editor,
As our income grows, so does our purchase of electronics, and with that comes the increase in energy consumption. Many of our learning institutions and Government institutions are adding more capabilities via technology, this is a huge benefit to the populace. With the expansion in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) our country becomes more knowledgeable and competitive. To keep pace with the development in this sector our electrical infrastructure and installations must be upgraded as well. The recent increase in fires across the country in residential, Government and commercial buildings has been rooted in electrical issues in a number of instances. Having building inspectors visit to review the electrical system prior to major ICT project approvals and by having an annual inspection process at our major private, Government and commercial institutions we will be able to identify potential gaps and concerns. This inspection process can and should be integrated into the annual fire inspection process that must be linked to a permit for the use of the premises. As for the residential risk mitigation process, this must continue to be part of the construction approval process, and in the case of older buildings it is in the best interest of the owners to seek out building inspectors who will help identify potential risks. Electricians should also be required to go through a periodic certification process that provides them with a licence to operate / practice. It will also be to their benefit to have insurance coverage that will protect them if a fire is linked to poor workmanship. This is a current requirement in some more advanced countries.
As our country continues to develop and advance, so too must our ability to safeguard against safety risks. To hear the President speak of his fear to drive on our roads was very eye opening and raised concerns that enough is not being done to adequately address the current road safety concerns. The Ministry of Home Affairs, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the team engaged in Urban Planning, must work together to address the current crisis on our roadways. Speed bumps, check points, increased police presence at intersections and dedicated routes for certain vehicles will help reduce the traffic risks in the near term, but with improved planning and the implementation of velocity controls, the medium-term risks can be significantly reduced.
I recommend that the Government take a broader view when developing and implementing our nation’s growth strategy in order to stay ahead of the issues that keep arising.
Sincerely,
Jamil Changlee
