Condolences to families and friends - and questions on accidental death of workers and SANDF members

Early reports of tragic accidents never have full details. However, an earlier report of an accident at the Naval Base in Durban referred to "contract" workers. Then I picked up this report from SANews, which refers to "construction" workers. 

First, we must express our condolences to the families of these workers and soldiers - who left in the morning and did not return at the end of the day, as a result of an accident at the workplace.  

The earlier report refers to a gas leak - according to the earlier report, three workers were screaming for help because of a gas leak, and the three soldiers valiantly went to their assistance, and were apparently also overtaken by the gas.    

Today's full report by SAnews.gov.za reads:

"President Jacob Zuma has expressed deep sadness after three South African Navy soldiers and three construction workers from the Department of Public works died tragically on Friday while working in a sewer pit at the Naval Base in Durban.

It is understood the three soldiers rushed to the pit to try and assist the Public Works staff members who were struggling to breathe underground.

The Presidency said the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula had called the President and informed him of the tragedy.

President Zuma has extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the three soldiers and the three Public Works staff members.

“We are devastated by the deaths of these hard working soldiers and their colleagues. It is really tragic for all of them to lose their lives in this manner. This is a most painful and traumatic time for all the families and for all of us.

“This happens just when we were preparing to join the SANDF in Durban for the Armed Forces Day celebration which also marks the centenary of the sinking of the SS Mendi vessel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families at this difficult and painful time,” said President Zuma." 

This also comes at a time when skills-universe members are attending the QCTO sessions on new formats for qualifications and part-qualifications. Skills-universe members have also been raising many questions about the implications for occupational health and safety related training. These tragic events bring to life just how important it is for us to ensure that occupational health and safety training is not only regulated, but also carried out effectively.

I am keen to hear further as this incident is investigated:

• Were the deceased workers "contract" workers?
• What training had they received?
• How could the accident have been averted?
• What relevant training had been given to the SANDF soldiers? Given that soldiers are often called upon to respond to disasters, emergencies, etc.,  are they adequately trained to deal with such incidents?

In the meantime, we need to focus on OSHACT-related training and the interaction between the DHET, the DoL, and the QCTO - to prevent items falling between the various institutions - at the expense of workers.