THE Ministry of Labour has launched an investigation into a tragic incident that occurred at the John Fernandes Limited Port Facility on Water Street, Georgetown, on Tuesday morning, around 07:38 hours, resulting in the death of 64-year-old Trevor Jones, a stevedore foreman of Mandela Avenue, East Ruimveldt.

According to initial reports, Jones was walking behind a super reach stacker as it was reversing when he was struck by the counterweight at the rear of the vehicle. Subsequently, he fell to the side and was fatally injured by the rear right wheel of the machine.

Upon receiving the report, Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Officers, Ms. Johana Vaughn and Ms. Neza King, promptly visited the scene to conduct a preliminary investigation. It was determined that the accident occurred between the facility’s main entrance and the wharf, after Jones had completed his 12 midnight to 06:00 hours shift.

Expressing deep concern, the Labour Minister, Joseph Hamilton, emphasised the importance of worker safety.
He articulated that when individuals leave their homes for work, there is an inherent expectation, among their families, that they will return home safely afterward.

Minister Hamilton extended sincere sympathy to the grieving relatives, co-workers, and friends of the deceased, acknowledging the profound impact such incidents have on families and communities.

The Ministry’s Occupational Safety and Health department has launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Efforts are underway to ascertain the root cause of the incident and identify any lapses in safety protocols or procedures.

As investigations continue, the Ministry remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of workers across all sectors. Measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future, with a focus on enhancing workplace safety standards and enforcement mechanisms.