Turk-Is's Request for Occupational Health to Minister Vedat Işıkhan

Letter on Occupational Accidents and Workplace Safety

In light of the recent increase in fatal occupational accidents, Türk-İş sent a letter to Minister of Labor and Social Security Vedat Işıkhan urging improvements in working conditions. The letter called for the necessary precautions to be taken.

The Importance of Law No. 6331

The letter, signed by Türk-İş General President Ergün Atalay and Deputy General President Ramazan Ağar, highlighted that the Occupational Health and Safety Law No. 6331, which came into effect in 2012, marks an important turning point for occupational health and safety in our country. This law aims to ensure the safety of workers, prevent risks, and create safe working conditions.

Increasing Occupational Accidents and Unsafe Working Environments

The letter emphasized that the increasing occupational accidents across Turkey and the dangers faced by workers indicate serious problems within the current occupational health and safety system. Many accidents that occurred last year and this year reveal the inadequacies in occupational health and safety culture.

Deterrent Penalties and Prevention Suggestions

Among the causes of occupational accidents, lack of inspections, informal employment, and insufficient penalties were cited. The letter stressed the necessity for effective monitoring of legal obligations so that all workers can achieve decent, safe, and healthy working conditions.

The Value of Human Life

The letter expressed that the value of human life cannot be measured in monetary terms and emphasized the need for deterrent measures, including prison sentences. Türk-İş highlighted the importance of making the necessary legislative changes in this regard.