A seminar on enhancing occupational safety and health practices in Bangladesh was held in the capital on Tuesday, marking Occupational Health and Safety Day 2026.
Organised by the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments, the event took place at a hotel in Bijoynagar, bringing together government officials, labour leaders, employers and international representatives.
Adviser on political and agriculture affairs Nazrul Islam Khan attended the programme as chief guest, while Mahdi Amin, adviser on labour and employment affairs to the Prime Minister’s Office, was present as special guest. Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury chaired the session.
Speakers at the seminar stressed the need to strengthen occupational health awareness and workplace safety practices across the country.
Director General of the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments Omar Md Imrul Mohsin said a significant proportion of work-related deaths occur due to occupational diseases. He urged stakeholders to focus not only on workplace accidents but also on long-term health risks.
ILO Director Max Tunon highlighted the importance of labour-friendly legal frameworks and said workplace safety should include both physical protection and mental well-being. He called for stronger collaboration among educational institutions, employers and workers to improve working conditions.
In his remarks, Nazrul Islam Khan said workers are central to production and national development, warning that failure to ensure decent working conditions could hinder economic progress. He also emphasised the need for training and recognising workers’ experience, alongside modernising inspection systems and expediting labour-related cases.
Mahadi Amin said the government remains committed to ensuring safe workplaces in line with its electoral pledges. He expressed optimism about improving workers’ welfare and ensuring proper recognition of their skills.
Chairing the session, Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury said the government is working with labour leaders and experts to address gaps in existing labour laws. He called for greater awareness among both employers and workers and pledged support to strengthen inspection mechanisms.
Among others, Labour Secretary Abdur Rahman Tarafdar, Bangladesh Employers’ Federation President Fazle Shamim Ehsan, Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal President Anwar Hossain, and Department of Labour Director General Abdus Samad Al Azad attended the event, along with senior representatives from the ministry and relevant organisations.
