Union: Appeal for protection of forestry workers' health during cold days

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - Given the unfavorable weather conditions and low temperatures forecast for the coming days in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Independent Union of Forestry, Wood Processing and Paper Industry of BiH is issuing an APPEAL to employers for the application of safety and health at work measures in conditions of low temperatures, with the request that they adhere to the Labor Law, the Law on Occupational Safety, collective agreements, as well as bylaws from the field of occupational safety, including regulations from the field of occupational safety in forestry.

"We appeal to employers in forestry companies, private employers whose workers are engaged in logging, as well as other employers whose workers are exposed to external influences or work in unheated cold rooms and halls, to introduce preventive measures at work in conditions of low temperatures and precipitation, apply appropriate work organization within the company and adequate safety and health protection measures for workers, in order to reduce the harmful effects and risks to the health and lives of workers performing outdoor jobs," the Union stated.

They warn that working outdoors in unfavorable climatic conditions and low temperatures, as well as in insufficiently heated premises, can lead to an increased risk of occupational injuries and work-related illnesses.

"Cold causes a reduction in mental and physical abilities due to loss of sensitivity and dexterity of fingers, which increases the risk of occupational injuries, and work efficiency in such conditions is extremely low. In these conditions, workers are additionally exposed to workplace risks. It is proposed to apply the redistribution of working hours in accordance with the Law and collective agreements, and for workplaces where redistribution of working hours is not possible, to apply adequate safety and health protection measures, provide workers with adequate equipment, warm rooms, hot drinks, more frequent breaks, and other conditions, in order to reduce the harmful effects and risks to the health and lives of workers," the Union communicated.