Union demands protection for forestry workers due to low temperatures

(Patria) - Given the weather conditions and low temperatures in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which will persist in the coming days, the Independent Union of Forestry, Wood Processing and Paper Industry of BiH has sent an APPEAL to all employers in forestry-economic companies for the application of occupational safety and health measures in conditions of low temperatures, demanding compliance with the Labor Law, the Occupational Safety Law, collective agreements for the forestry sector, both branch and individual, as well as by-laws in the field of occupational safety, including regulations on occupational safety in forestry.

Workers performing work tasks outdoors in unfavorable climatic conditions and low temperatures are additionally burdened given the complexity of the work they perform and the obligation to use personal protective equipment due to the risks they are exposed to at the workplace.

We warn that working in such conditions 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 at an extremely low level.

"We appeal to employers in forestry-economic companies, private employers whose workers are engaged in logging, as well as other employers whose workers are exposed to external influences, or work in cold rooms and halls that are not heated, to introduce preventive measures at work in conditions of low temperatures and precipitation, apply appropriate work organization in the company and adequate measures for the safety and health protection of workers at work, in order to reduce harmful effects and risks to the health and life of workers performing outdoor work.

In conditions of low temperatures and precipitation, it is proposed to apply a redistribution of working hours in accordance with the Law and collective agreements, and for workplaces where it is not possible to introduce a redistribution of working hours, to apply adequate occupational safety and health measures, provide workers with adequate equipment, warm rooms, hot drinks, more frequent breaks and other conditions, in order to reduce harmful effects and risks to the health and life of workers," it was stated.