City's workplace accidents down in 2008

JAKARTA: Workplace accidents at 31,000 companies across the capital were down from about 400 cases in 2007 to 330 in 2008, the city's manpower and transmigration agency reported recently.

Deded Sukandar from the agency said many accidents were caused by a dearth of proper working equipment, with most other cases involving chemical substances and falling platforms.

"We have told all companies to make sure their equipment is safe, to provide employees safety uniforms and fire extinguishers. The workers can also file complaints if the equipment does not meet safety standards."

"If the companies are careless, they may be punishable with a five-year jail sentence and a fine of up to Rp 100 million," said Deded.

The agency would offer rewards to companies recording no accidents, he said. - JP