DUBAI, 9 January 2007 — City officials have sought cooperation from private firms in improving the living conditions of laborers. Salim ibn Mesmar, director of the Public Health Department at the municipality, said the civic body is committed to work with the private sector in maintaining highest public health standards in Dubai.
Mesmar was addressing a gathering of representatives of various companies handpicked by Dubai Municipality as outstanding performers in areas related to public health, including those companies that provide the best accommodation to their workers and improved safety at workplaces.
Companies commended for providing the best labor benefits include: Al-Futtaim Carillion Tarmac, Al-Bustan Rotana Hotel, Wade Adams, Intercat Trading, Gulf Real Estate Consortium (Gresco), Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dusit Dubai, Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa, Roshan Contracting, Jumeirah Beach Resort, and Al-Basti & Muktha.
“These companies have proven track records in providing their workers with superb living conditions in terms of space, food, recreational and sanitary facilities. Our inspectors have visited these accommodations and found them outstanding. By honoring these companies we encourage other establishments to treat their workers in a dignified way,” said Mesmar.
The companies which were honored for workplace safety were: Al-Tajir Glass Industries, Lionweled Kennedy Middle East, Emirates Printing Press, Al-Futtaim Motors, Gulf Center for Soap & Chemical Industries, and Jotun Paints UAE Ltd.
“Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Rashid Thani Al-Matrooshi, director of Dubai Civil Defense Department, said that it is mandatory for companies to obtain safety compliance certificates for their temporary and permanent labor camps.
Failure to comply with this regulation will result in the suspension of transactions, including license applications or license renewals until the offense is cleared. The safety certificates will be issued in coordination with other concerned government departments.
