Inquiry opened for public to submit information regarding negligence at WAMCO

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has opened the opportunity for the public to submit information regarding its investigation into workplace safety at the Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO). This inquiry follows a recent incident that resulted in the death of one employee and left another with serious injuries, currently requiring ventilator support.

The Commission has launched an investigation into the Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO) following complaints regarding hazardous conditions within the company's work environment.

In a press statement released Thursday, the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) expressed serious concerns regarding the safety of employees engaged in waste collection and management at WAMCO. The Commission further noted that recurring incidents have led to public questioning of the adequacy of safety measures implemented by the company to protect its workforce.

As part of this investigation, the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) will verify whether the protections mandated for employees under the Occupational Health and Safety Act have been ensured. Furthermore, the Commission will investigate the provision of necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to workers, the extent to which safety measures are being practically implemented, and whether employees have been provided with the essential training required to mitigate workplace hazards.

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has announced that it is seeking information from the public to assist with this investigation. The opportunity to provide information is open to:

• Current and former employees of the Waste Management Corporation.
• Unions or representatives of workers
• Relevant Stakeholders
• Members of the public who possess information relevant to this investigation.

The HRCM stated that information regarding the investigation can be submitted via email at inquiry@hrcm.org.mv or by calling 3003121. Additionally, individuals may provide information by visiting the commission in person.

The HRCM further stated that the investigation will examine whether employees have the opportunity to voice their concerns regarding the workplace environment without fear of intimidation or retaliation. Consequently, the Commission has urged anyone with relevant information to cooperate with WAMCO employees. Furthermore, the HRCM has provided assurances that the confidentiality of all informants will be strictly maintained.

A Maldivian employee remains on ventilator support at IGMH after falling from a ramp on Sunday night. This follows a separate fatal incident last month at the Thilafushi site, where a Bangladeshi worker died due to negligence.

Regarding the matter, police stated that a case involving an individual who sustained serious injuries during an incident at the WAMCO site in Malé on February 22 was reported to the authorities on the evening of February 23. Police are currently investigating the matter. However, officials have not disclosed the specific details surrounding the nature of the investigation.

While Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO) employees face physical violence and life-threatening dangers on the job, complaints have also surfaced during President Muizzu’s administration regarding the company’s failure to provide essential benefits, including pension contributions.