CETU: Over 50% of workplaces fail to report occupational accidents

The Confederation of Ethiopian Trade Unions (CETU) reported that over 50% of organizations in the country fail to report occupational accidents to relevant authorities. Ato Ayalew Ahmed, head of the confederation's External and Public Relations department, stated that despite laws requiring such reporting, a lack of enforcement and data collection makes it difficult to track the true scale of the problem. He noted that the construction sector, in particular, suffers from inadequate safety measures, leading to frequent injuries and fatalities.

Beyond immediate physical accidents, the report highlights the alarming issue of delayed health complications, including cancer, caused by chemical exposure in various workplaces. The confederation emphasizes the need for stricter inspection of chemicals upon entry into the country. It also calls for raising worker awareness about chemical hazards and ensuring the mandatory use of personal protective equipment.