Call for study on occupational injuries

The general secretary of the Union Haddiema Maghqudin, Gejtu Vella, yesterday called for a study to be carried out to identify the shortcomings that resulted in workplace injuries.

His call was made in the wake of figures announced by Social Policy Minister Lawrence Gonzi showing that occupational accidents and ill-health cost the economy Lm14 million last year.

Speaking at the close of a seminar on workplace stress, Mr Vella said more investment should be made in health and safety standards. This investment would lead to higher productivity and stronger competitiveness.

Mr Vella also spoke of the need for a framework within which health and safety standards could be better enforced.

The European Union adhered to high standards in this regard, and membership would therefore mean marrying the economic and social aspects, in that competitiveness would be safeguarded through the protection of workers' mental and physical health.

The seminar was organised by the UHM's Salvinu Spiteri Foundation and the Richmond Foundation.