In Savar Bangladesh, a factory collapsed on April 26, 2013
killing hundreds of innocent workers. The garment factory was eight stories
tall, housing five garment companies and employing around 2,500 employees. The
death toll resulting from its collapse has reached over 300.
On Friday, rescuers realized that more survivors were
trapped underneath the rubble. A new rescue mission is taking place as officials
are endeavoring to release the trapped victims. Many are hurt and unable to
move, but are in urgent need of medical treatment. So far, 2,348 people have
been rescued. Several have been hospitalized and remain in critical condition.
Cracks in the
Building Alarmed Workers
A day before the collapse, cracks appeared in the structure
of the building. Many Bangladesh citizens are enraged over the industry’s lax
safety standards. Despite some of the workers’ concerns over the cracks in the
building, many were told to still report to work.
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters
Associations said it would pay the salaries and dues of workers who were
impacted by the collapse by the first week of May. The cause of the collapse is
still being investigated by authorities. The number of people trapped inside
the rubble is unknown. However, it is reported that 595 people are still
missing.
Worker Rights, Safety
Violations, and Resulting Injuries
Sadly, various incidences similar to the story told above
occur frequently around the globe. Employers and building owners fail to
maintain workplaces in a safe manner that protects employees. As a result,
numerous employees are suffering from preventable injuries.
Employers are legally responsible for maintaining a safe
environment at the workplace or they can be held liable and punished by fines
and violations. Unfortunately, many employees suffer debilitating injuries due
to the irresponsibility of the employer.
Workers’ Compensation
Attorney
If you were recently injured while on the job, you should
speak to a workers’ compensation attorney to discuss your injury and rights. A
workers’ compensation attorney will work to earn you the rightful compensation
you deserve. Often times, workers will be taken advantage of and not be given
the monetary amount they deserve. Contact us today in order to protect your
legal rights.