Union-led OHS inspections uncover serious violations at Hualong construction

BWI affiliates CLAWUZ and ZCATWU conducted OHS site inspections at Saint-Gobain Africa and Hualong Construction on 4 and 8 November 2024, respectively. Saint-Gobain showcased commendable safety practices, including visitor precautions, comprehensive OHS signage, PPE for all workers (including subcontracted ones), and a wellness centre. An eight-member delegation (including two women) confirmed the company’s adherence to OHS standards and noted workers manually handling 21kg cement bags, as well as employer-provided training and career opportunities.

In stark contrast, inspections at Hualong Construction revealed alarming safety violations, including poor housekeeping, inadequate PPE, substandard worker accommodation, and a lack of essential safety measures such as harnesses and fire extinguishers. Twenty-three participants (including 14 women) from SACONET affiliates, the Zimbabwe Ministry of Labour, NSSA, and employer associations identified these shortcomings and held a meeting with site management to address and enforce compliance with local laws. “The stark contrast between these two sites underscores the urgent need for robust OHS standards and enforcement across the construction industry in Zimbabwe. It is imperative that employers prioritize worker safety and well-being, and that regulatory bodies hold them accountable. BWI and its affiliates are up to the task and, working in collaboration, will ensure that workers’ dignity is preserved”, said Morgan Mazarura, the ZCATWU OHS Officer. 

The inspections were part of the 3F and BWI OHS, Mental Health, and Legal Writing Workshop, held from 6 to 8 November 2024 in Harare, Zimbabwe. The workshop provided insights into OHS management systems, workplace hazards (including psychosocial ones), and risk assessment. Delegates also discussed hazardous materials like asbestos and their impact, with emphasis on data handling, communication, and worker engagement. “We want to thank 3F, BWI, and the SACONET unions for this workshop and the OHS site inspections. As BWI affiliates based in Zimbabwe, we are committed to implementing the recommendations to push for a world of work that is safe, healthy, and decent,” said Thandiwe Mupane, Acting General Secretary of CLAWUZ.

The contrasting conditions between Saint-Gobain and Hualong highlight the urgent need for improved workplace safety standards across Zimbabwe. BWI and its affiliates reaffirmed their commitment to working with regulatory bodies and employers to uphold workers’ rights, prioritise safety, and preserve dignity in the workplace.