The United National Transport Union (UNTU) is horrified about the freak accident at Durban Container Terminal Pier1, killing one of the employees of Transnet Port Terminals (TPT).
The body of a worker was found crushed under a container by one of his colleagues who were shifting boxes in the reefer yard.
Steve Harris, General Secretary of UNTU, says it is not clear how the accident occurred. The matter is currently being investigated by the relevant authorities.
Transnet Group assured UNTU that they are providing trauma counselling to the family and to the affected members working in the same division.
“One life lost is one too many. We are heartbroken about the incident. Our sincerest condolences to the family, loved ones and colleagues of the employee. We pray that God will comfort you and give you strength in this exceedingly difficult time.
“The health and safety of employees is non-negotiable to UNTU at all times. The Union demands that TPT provide us with a comprehensive report to indicate if the reduced staff working as essential services during the COVID-19 lockdown contributed to the freak accident. This is the second accident in the TPT environment since the outbreak of the pandemic.
“UNTU appeals to our members to always put their safety and that of their colleagues first. Risk management and safety should at all times be at the core of the operations in TPT,” says Harris.
Issued on behalf of UNTU by Sonja Carstens, Deputy-General Secretary: Media, Liaison and Communication. For UNTU press releases phone Sonja on 082 463 6806 or e-mail sonja@untu.co.za.
