Recent news reminds us once again of the dangers construction workers face. A worker was trapped when part of a building under construction near Taj Bank in Abuja’s business district collapsed at around 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.
According to Nkechi Isa, Public Affairs Officer of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the victim was among the workers who were working on the pouring of the first slab of the building when it collapsed on him. Fortunately, the victim was quickly rescued and transported to the Trauma Center of the National Hospital, Abuja for medical treatment.
The FEMA official stressed the importance of following construction standards to avoid such accidents. He also called on construction companies to use quality materials and avoid questionable practices during construction sites.
This tragic event highlights the need for increased vigilance in the construction sector. Workers must be protected and safety standards must be strictly respected. Worker safety must be a top priority for construction companies and regulatory authorities.
As a society, we must also become aware of these issues and support responsible construction practices. By knowing the risks construction workers face, we can demand strict standards, encourage safety training and awareness on construction sites, and support workers who have been involved in accidents.
It is essential to emphasize that the construction of a building should never be done at the expense of worker safety. The construction industry is a vital sector of the economy, but this must not come at the expense of the lives and health of workers. By ensuring the protection and safety of those who build our cities, we help create a better, safer future for everyone.