George Building Collapse
The number of construction workers present during the tragic collapse of a building in George Municipality, Western Cape, has been confirmed to stand at 81, marking an increase from an earlier report that placed the figure at 75. This development came to light on Thursday, four days after the devastating incident that has prompted widespread concern and a slew of investigative activities.
Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi made a visit to the calamitous scene to liaise with both local and provincial government authorities, receive firsthand updates from the rescue teams, and the dispatched Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) inspectors. The primary focus of these engagements is to unravel the circumstances that led to the collapse, underlining a strong commitment to health and safety compliance.
At this crucial juncture, the police are spearheading the investigative operations, a move that Minister Nxesi supports, stating that the police’s inquiries must proceed unobstructed until a comprehensive conclusion is reached. The Department of Employment and Labour, as per Nxesi, stands poised to commence its investigative procedures in alignment with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, particularly leaning on Sections 31 and 32, once the baton is passed from the police force.
Highlighting the intricate web of statutory roles and responsibilities that span across various government levels and departments, Nxesi underlined a collaborative approach to the ongoing investigations. This concerted effort ensures that alongside the police and employment department’s investigations, any other entities keen on conducting their scrutiny are welcome, ensuring a multifaceted examination of the incident.
Nxesi meticulously avoided speculation, choosing to wait for the investigations to unfold the truth behind the tragic occurrence. He acknowledged the vested interests of multiple national departments, including Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Human Settlements, Police, and Social Development, all keen on the outcomes of the investigations for varied reasons.
A poignant aspect of the minister’s address was the call to the employer of the construction workers or the building’s owners to engage with the affected families. This appeal underscores the government’s commitment to providing support and possibly compensation upon the identification of all involved individuals.
While there is an anticipation of conclusions from the investigations, no specific timeline has been set. This flexible approach allows for a thorough exploration of the facts, ensuring that the resultant actions and policies are well-informed and impactful.
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