Dhaka: A telephone helpline for workers to make and resolve their grievances relating to workplace safety or workers’ rights was launched in Bangladesh on Sunday.

The helpline -– 0800 44 55 000 -– will be run by the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments (DIFE) and has been established with support from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Norwegian government.

Calls received by the helpline will be logged and forwarded to either DIFE, the Fire Service and Civil Defence Department or the Directorate of Labour to deal with. The caller will then be contacted with a response.

In the initial phase, the helpline will target readymade garment workers in Ashulia area. Should it prove successful it will be promoted to workers nationwide.

Speaking at the launch Country Director ILO Srinivas B Reddy said, ‘Over the last two years, unprecedented efforts have been made to enhance workplace safety and improve workers’ rights in the ready-made garment sector in Bangladesh.

‘By providing workers with the chance to air grievances this helpline gives a voice to the voiceless. It will also play an important role in facilitating better work place relations by helping address grievances that may otherwise escalate into mass protests or court cases.’

State Minister for the Ministry of Labour and Employment Mujibul Haque presided over the ceremony.  

Labour Secretary Mikail Shipar, Inspector General of the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments Syed Ahmed, Director of Labour SM Ashrafuzzaman as well as representatives from employers and workers organisations were present.