Türk-İş Requests Minister Vedat Işıkhan for Occupational Health

Letter on Occupational Accidents and Workplace Safety

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

Importance of Law No. 6331

The letter, signed by Türk-İş General President Ergün Atalay and General Vice President Ramazan Ağar, emphasized that the Occupational Health and Safety Law No. 6331, enacted in 2012, represented a significant turning point for occupational health and safety in the country. This law aims to ensure the safety of workers, prevent risks, and establish safe working conditions.

Increasing Occupational Accidents and Unsafe Working Environments

The letter pointed out that the increasing number of work accidents across Turkey and the dangers faced by workers indicate serious issues within the current occupational health and safety system. Accidents in many provinces last year and this year highlight the inadequacies in the occupational health and safety culture.

Deterrent Penalties and Prevention Suggestions

Among the causes of work accidents, lack of inspections, informal employment, and insufficient penalties were identified. The letter stressed that legal obligations must be effectively monitored to ensure that all workers have decent, safe, and healthy working conditions.

The Value of Human Life

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