A Landmark Agreement for Construction Industry Workers’ Safety
In a significant move to bolster workplace safety, Labour Minister Yiannis Panayiotou has enacted a new measure ensuring that safety and health training will become mandatory for all construction industry workers in the nation. This initiative is set to transform the landscape of occupational health and safety within the construction sector.
Addressing the press, Panayiotou underscored the importance of this development. “Today marks a crucial step for our workers’ safety and health, as we’ve reached an agreement between social partners, such as unions and workers’ and employees’ organisations, and the government to enforce mandatory training on safety and health in the construction industry,” he stated, underscoring the collaborative effort that led to this milestone.
The agreed-upon framework allows for a two-year transitional period, during which the requirements for worker training will be phased in. Post-transition, it will be compulsory for all construction workers to undergo safety and health training. This training will be a condition for entry onto construction sites, with a Safe Pass card issued to those who complete it.
The Safe Pass card, as outlined in the policy’s annex, will certify that holders have received basic safety and health training. It will be available in two tiers: one for technical and scientific personnel, and another for labour personnel. Training sessions will span six hours and be conducted by specialized trainers. The card will remain valid for five years, after which workers will need to undertake another six-hour training session to renew their certification.
Panayiotou extended his thanks to the social partners for their role in the consultations. “Their collaboration reflects the government’s commitment to prioritising worker safety and health,” he remarked, emphasizing that these aspects are fundamental and non-negotiable.
The joint policy statement has garnered signatures from a broad coalition including the labour ministry, the federation of employers and industrialists (Oev), the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, trade unions Sek, Peo, Deok and Pasidy, the Scientific and Technical Chamber (Etek), the Council for the Registration and Control of Contractors (Seee), and the Human Resource Development Authority (Hrda), all of whom have pledged their commitment to enhancing safety standards in the construction industry.
