Daily, construction workers face life-threatening risks, often working without adequate safety measures and social support in hazardous conditions. This has prompted strong calls for industry reform, while employers are being urged to improve workplace safety and provide additional health support.

"First, workers often neglect safety to respect the company’s principles on the construction site. Second, contractors exploit cost-saving measures by skimping on essential safety materials."

Managing Director of V.BuildCC Design & Construction Co., Ltd, Mr. Chhoun Bunthoeun, emphasized that negligence and the lack of proper protective materials are critical factors behind recent industry tragedies. He noted that while large projects typically engage management companies to oversee worker safety, small projects often depend on individual contractors who may prioritize cost-cutting over worker security.

"There’s no worker security insurance package, certainly for small projects, because the cost is on the constructor, and they're not willing to pay for it."

Bunthoeun also questioned whether all project developers are truly committed to providing necessary protective equipment, despite existing construction laws. He highlighted a critical gap: while security management packages are standard for large projects, they often focus solely on construction safety without addressing workers' health insurance or accident coverage.

"If we purchase work security insurance, who will cover the workers?"

To address these systemic safety gaps, Mr. Bunthoeun called on contractors and project owners to adopt comprehensive social support measures, including:

  • Providing NSSF cards to all workers.
  • Establishing formal employment contracts.
  • Offering additional incentives to enhance workers’ welfare and security.

He underscored the critical importance for contractors to thoroughly check worker safety during tasks at elevated heights by ensuring they are wearing appropriate protective gear in accordance with international construction safety standards.

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