Probe launched into fatal workplace accident at Pritipaul wharf

The Labour Ministry’s Occupational Safety and Health Department is currently investigating an industrial accident at Pritipaul Singh Investments at Providence, East Bank Demerara, which led to the death of a mechanic.
Ravichandra Seemangal succumbed three days after the incident occurred on March 13.
From the investigation, it was revealed that on the day of the accident, Seemangal was riding his bicycle while a tele hoist operator was reversing the vehicle.
The tele hoist collided with the bicycle and Seemangal sustained injuries to his abdomen, feet, and hands. He succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment at Woodlands Hospital on Saturday.
This industrial accident is currently being investigated by a Senior Occupational Safety and Health Officer and other members of the unit. The investigation is ongoing.
Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton shared his concern over the continued occurrence of workplace accidents, especially when workers are fatally injured. He recognised the suffering experienced by the relatives and loved ones of those who have passed away and, as such, extended sincere condolences to those affected, including the victim’s family, colleagues, and friends.
Earlier this month, a fatal accident occurred as a result of land caving in at Cowing Backdam, Upper Mazaruni River, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni). This led to the death of 60-year-old Bertram Willie, a dredge owner of Wisroc Housing Scheme, Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).
Shortly after, a catastrophic boiler explosion gravely injured three young men at Hack Rice Mill, Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).
In 2023, the Labour Ministry recorded a total of 20 occupational deaths due to accidents in the mining, construction, agriculture and manufacturing sectors. Of the 20 deaths recorded, nine occurred in the mining sector in Region Seven while six were recorded in the construction sector.
Additionally, the Ministry recorded 175 non-fatal accidents that were investigated out of the 577 reports received. Most of these reports emanated from the agriculture and manufacturing sectors. (G12)