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

Letter About Occupational Accidents and Workplace Safety

Following the recent 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 calls for necessary precautions to be taken.

The Importance of Law No. 6331

In the letter signed by Türk-İş General President Ergün Atalay and General Vice President Ramazan Ağar, it was stated that the Occupational 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 worker safety, prevent risks, and create safe working conditions.

Increasing Workplace Accidents and Unsafe Working Environments

The letter emphasized that the increasing workplace accidents across Turkey and the dangers faced by workers indicate that the current occupational health and safety system carries serious problems. 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 workplace accidents, lack of oversight, informal work, and insufficient penalties were highlighted. The letter pointed out that legal obligations must be effectively monitored to ensure 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 money and emphasized that deterrent measures, including prison sentences, must be implemented. Türk-İş highlighted the importance of making necessary legislative changes in this regard.