Workers have been barred from entering a factory after more than 50 people were hospitalised for inhaling toxic fumes at a textile factory in northern Durban, the labour department said on Thursday.
”The minister (Membathisi Mdladlana) has instructed Department of Labour inspectors not to allow workers to enter the Dazinscott factory until the environment has been declared safe and healthy,” it said in a statement.
Workers were taken to hospital after contractors hired by the company sprayed insecticide.
The contractors allegedly fumigated while more than 150 people were working. Fifty were treated for pesticide inhalation, vomiting and seizures.
According to SABC radio news, four people had to be admitted to the intensive care unit at a city hospital. ”Some employers treat workers very badly. It is unacceptable for workers to be treated in this way.
”Workers should know they have the right to refuse to work in a dangerous place,” the minister said.
”Workers must demand that health and safety committees are established in the workplace. I appeal to trade unions to campaign vigorously for the establishment of these committees in each and every workplace.”
Environmental officials visited the employees in hospitals earlier in the day. – Sapa