HÀ NỘI — In an attempt to reduce the number of work-related accidents, authorities in Hà Nội will tighten the control of construction activities in the city.

From the beginning of March, inspectors from the Hà Nội Construction Department have started conducting inspections on the observation of legal document relating to work safety and environmental sanitation at a number of construction sites. Specifically, they will focus on projects in Ba Đình, Hoàn Kiếm, Long Biên, Sóc Sơn, Mê Linh, Đông Anh and Gia Lâm districts.

According to Hà Nội Construction Department Inspectorate, the inspections will help the Inspectorate promptly detect, prevent and handle violations on work safety and environmental sanitation.

Inspectors will review shortcomings and difficulties in the implementation of work safety and environmental sanitation at construction sites.

At the same time, they will propose measures to the municipal People’s Committee with a view to improving the effectiveness of the work.

A series of workplace accidents in Hà Nội last year raised concerns over safety and the responsibility of agencies.

Ten accidents were reported in the city last year, leaving five people dead and dozens injured.

Experts blamed poor management of employers in supervising construction sites and the fact that labourers were not properly trained on labour safety regulations. Negligence while at work was also a factor.

Nguyễn Đức Chung, chairman of the municipal People’s Committee, recently requested the Construction Department to work with relevant agencies in strengthening inspections at construction projects and strictly deal with violators. Investors who failed to ensure labour safety should be suspended, he said.

Last year, inspectors from the department inspected 50 construction projects and imposed administrative fines on 20 totalling nearly VNĐ$300 million (US$13,000).  — VNS