Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2001, published 90th ILC session (2002)

Occupational Safety and Health (Dock Work) Convention, 1979 (No. 152) - Finland (Ratification: 1981)

1. Further to its previous observation based on the comments made by the Central Organization of Finnish Trade Unions (SAK), the Committee notes the brief information contained in the Government’s report indicating that the Occupational Safety and Health Inspectorate has been carrying out specific supervision projects to improve the safety of lifting appliances used in stevedoring, focusing specifically on lifting belts and slings and the procedure used for checking them. While the Committee welcomes this information, it would be grateful if the Government would provide further particulars, including statistical data indicating the kind and magnitude of the said specific supervision undertaken, as well as on any results obtained from the supervision.

2. Further to its previous observation based on the comments made by the SAK, the Committee notes the Government’s reply that the employer must report serious accidents to the occupational safety and health authorities, which will examine the case. The Government indicates that a report always has to be made on accidents, and the Federation of Accident Insurance Institutions makes various summaries of different sectors, such as cargo handling, which includes stevedoring. The Committee notes the information that statistics of accidents for the cargo-handling sector includes accidents involving stevedores. However, given the highly dangerous nature of dock work and in view of the aim referred to in Article 39 of the Convention, which is to assist in the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases in dock work, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would keep the Office informed on the measures taken or envisaged to collect and report statistics on occupational accidents and diseases for dock work specifically.