GNBS focusing on optimizing use of OSH data

By Stacy Carmichael-James

In recognition of Occupational Safety and Health Month, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) today (April 20, 2017) held a symposium under the theme “Optimise the collections and use of OSH data,” at the Cara Lodge, Georgetown.

Speaking at the symposium, Head of the Legal Metrology and Standards Compliance Department and member of the National Advisory Council of Occupational Safety and Health (NACOSH) Shailendra Rai said the importance of OSH cannot be overemphasized and involves all stakeholders.

He highlighted the roles of both the employer and employees in the process, noting that the employer has a responsibility to ensure the necessary safety gear and equipment are available, as well as ensure that issues relating to non-conformity following inspections are addressed.

On the other hand, the employee has the obligation to conduct inspections and inform the employer of the findings and most important, always wear the available safety gear.

Rai spoke of the collaboration between GNBS and the Ministry of Social Protection, alluding to the signing of various MOUs with agencies in an effort to boost technical assistance in developing OSH systems.

Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Power Producers and Distribution Inc., Gary Hall delivering a presentation on the topic “Strategies to Optimise the collection and use of OSH data” called for a change in the traditional way of handling data. “Not just saying that we had five accidents last year, so what are we doing this year to mitigate against having a repeat of those five accidents, or are we looking at accidents alone? What about the General Health of the people, what about the culture of the organization? How is that going to impact the attitudes of people as against how we put out health and safety,” he told participants.

Head of Conformity Assessment, Rodlyn Semple also made a presentation at the symposium.