Sascha Wilson
More than a week after worker Gavin Ramoutar was crushed to death at the TCL Mayo plant, operations have not fully resumed.
This was confirmed yesterday by Janelle Collins of TCL’s Communications Department in response to Guardian Media’s request for an update on the investigations.
Collins said, “Our focus has been on supporting Gavin’s family as well as our people, along with a thorough investigation, which was immediately launched upon learning of the accident. Again, our deepest condolences go out to the family. As the investigation is still ongoing, we are unable to share any details at this point, except to say that we continue to work very closely with the Occupational Safety and Health Agency, the police and other authorities to determine the specific cause. The OWTU is also involved in the process. Operations will resume at the area when the necessary clearance has been received from the relevant agencies.”
Last week Wednesday, around 3.30 am, 39-year-old Ramoutar was operating a Belt Hopper machine when he got trapped in it and was crushed to death, according to initial police information.
Ramoutar, a machine attendant, had worked at the plant as a casual worker for ten years. The funeral for the father of three was held on Tuesday.
The Oilfield Workers’ Trade (OWTU) has since called for a proper investigation. In a statement last week, OWTU stated that his death was extremely heart-breaking and an avoidable loss that should not have happened.
Underscoring the importance of employers always maintaining proper health and safety guidelines at high-risk facilities, the OWTU stated, “The OWTU, who stands as the workers’ representative at this company, therefore calls on the multinational owners of CEMEX/TCL to investigate fully this accident and to make all responsible parties accountable for the tragic loss of this young life. Additionally, the union, consistent with the OSH Act demand that there be full transparency with the OWTU, the Recognised Majority Union and that we be included on all investigations pertaining to this accident.”