Request for Occupational Health from Türk-İş to Minister Vedat Işıkhan

Letter on Occupational Accidents and Occupational Safety

In recent days, following the increase in fatal occupational accidents, Türk-İş sent a letter to Minister of Labor and Social Security Vedat Işıkhan requesting improvements in working conditions. The letter emphasized the need for necessary measures to be taken.

Importance of Law No. 6331

The letter, signed by Türk-İş General President Ergün Atalay and Deputy General President Ramazan Ağar, stated that the Labor Health and Safety Law No. 6331, which came into effect in 2012, is a significant turning point for occupational health and safety in our country. This law aims to ensure the safety of employees, prevent risks, and establish secure working conditions.

Increasing Occupational Accidents and Unsafe Working Environments

The letter emphasized that the increasing occupational accidents across Turkey and the dangers workers are exposed to indicate serious problems in the current occupational health and safety system. The accidents that occurred in many provinces last year and this year reveal deficiencies in the occupational health and safety culture.

Deterrent Penalties and Prevention Suggestions

Among the causes of occupational accidents, lack of inspection, informal work, and insufficient penalties were highlighted. The letter pointed out that the legal obligations should be effectively monitored to ensure that all workers enjoy decent, safe, and healthy working conditions.

The Value of Human Life

The letter stated that the value of human life cannot be measured with money and emphasized the need for deterrent measures, including prison sentences. Türk-İş highlighted the importance of making necessary changes to the legislation in this regard.