Experts on labour rights, trade unionists, government officials and representatives of employers’ associations and INGO have emphasized on improving the labour inspection system and maternity facilities in the leather sector.
Speaking at a workshop, they emphasised the importance of collaboration among stakeholders such as the government, trade unions and leather industry owners to improve labour inspection procedures and maternity facilities in the leather sector.
The workshop was held in the capital Dhaka on Tuesday (July 18, 2023), organised under the project ‘Building a Sustainable Leather Sector in Bangladesh’ of the Bangladesh OSHE Foundation.
Saki Rezwana, chair of the OSHE Foundation; presided over the event while Repon Chowdhury, executive director of the OSHE Foundation; delivered the welcome speech. SM Anamul Haque, director at the Department of Labour; Julia Jesmin, joint inspector general (health) at Department of Inspection of Factories and Establishments (DIFE); Rehana Akter Ruma, head of projects and program at Bangladesh Tanners Association (BTA); Abul Kalam Azad, president of Tannery Workers Union; attended the workshop as discussants, among others.
The event included a keynote presentation by an industry expert, interactive discussions, and valuable feedback. The outcomes of the workshop included the adoption of participatory inspection methods, reinforcement of government initiatives, identification of gaps and solutions, and the sharing of best practices for better work conditions and compliance.
The workshop placed several recommendations, including area separate inspection checklist for leather sector, changes and improvement of existing policy and enhance the overall working environment in the industry, creating and implementing a workforce database, better working conditions and women's rights in the leather sector.
The speakers of the workshop emphasized the significance of a safe and healthy workplace, workplace inspections, and maternity benefits.
In his speech, SM Anamul Haque highlighted the necessity of establishing a platform where all stakeholders in the leather industry can openly discuss their challenges and concerns. This platform would facilitate effective collaboration and help address issues in a coordinated manner.
Rehena Akter Ruma of BTA said, “We should enforce and implement Labour Inspection Management Application (LIMA) software likewise RMG for ensuring welfare, safety, and health of people working in leather sector.”
