Emmanuel Clement
The advocacy for the integration of safety education into training traders and artisans and the need for artisans, peasants, traders to understand work related health hazards, the Artisan, Peasants Traders Association of Nigeria (APTAN)lsolo/Ejigbo District on Sunday 25, August,2024 held a seminar on the theme“Understanding and Mitigating Work-Related Health Hazards.”at lshagatedo town hall, lsolo Lagos.
The event which gathered artisans, traders, and safety experts, all united by the goal of reducing workplace risks and promoting a culture of safety.
Sulaimon Ijaoba,the guest speaker of the day advocated for the integration of safety education into the training of artisans and traders. He emphasized the need for organizations to play an active role in fostering a culture of prevention within the workforce.
According to him,the safety of every individual should be their topmost priority, while urging members to take proactive steps in recognizing and mitigating workplace hazards to prevent accidents.
Sulaimon who went further to health hazards are chemical, physical or biological factors in the environment that can have negative impacts on our short- or long-term health, noting Exposure can occur through touch, inhalation, and ingestion. Understanding the risks of these hazards can help us to take action to avoid or mitigate these risks.
He noted that there are many types of workplaces which include spills on floors, walkways blocked by cords or boxes, falls from heights, machinery with moving parts, confined spaces and electrical hazards such as frayed cords.Health hazards are chemical, physical or biological factors in our environment,while highlight some of the dangers being faced in their various place of work and gave them preventive measures on how to handle such situations.
Investigator new gathered that the seminar’s inclusive approach brought together diverse voices, marking a significant step forward in APTAN’s mission to protect its members from work-related health hazards. As the adage goes, “Workplace safety is no accident,” and APTAN is determined to ensure that every member understands this crucial truth.
Alhaji Mokail Abdulsalam, the Coordinator of APTAN Isolo/Ejigbo District, while kicking off the seminar with a compelling call for change, reaffirmed APTAN’s dedication to improving safety standards within the community, while urging members to take proactive steps in recognizing and mitigating workplace hazards to prevent accidents.
Speaking to Investigator news, the APTAN Zonal Coordinator, underscored the importance of ongoing education and awareness. He described the seminar as a pivotal initiative in creating a safer working environment, emphasizing that it represents more than just a gathering—it’s a crucial step towards lasting change.
Rabiu, a committed APTAN member,who shared his personal experiences with the everyday risks faced by artisans and traders,deescribed the seminar as an eye-opener, offering practical solutions that could significantly reduce workplace injuries.
In the same vein,Adelaja Yusuf, a Site Supervisor, spoke to the critical role of proper oversight in ensuring safety protocols are followed. He highlighted how diligent supervision can prevent minor incidents from escalating into serious accidents.
Highpoint of the event was presentation of certificate to the participants
