no//free//exits

There is this gigantic signboard at the Burj Dubai construction site that says something along the lines of “This construction site has had zero accidents.”

I’d like to know how Samsung Corporation defines an ‘accident’. I’m eyewitness to at least two accidents. Once, it was a worker cutting his finger off. Granted, Samsung can’t exactly be held liable for that. They have an excellent safety induction programme. You can’t blame them if workers don’t follow instructions. I’ve heard a lot of ‘rumours’ about people falling off and dying. But you can’t blame Samsung for any of that. Continue reading »

written by theplasticpoet \\ tags: Accidents, Burj Dubai

A tribute to the nearly 7,000 workers building the Burj Dubai.

Most of these are severely underpaid, earning under US$500 a month. Apprentices, also known as ‘helpers’, are paid an average of US$250 a month. Their living conditions are sad. Up to 12 people share a room, where there’s hardly any breathing space for anyone. Hygiene is horrible. The concentration labour camps are overflowing with rats.

And most of them don’t even know what accident insurance even means. Please raise your voice for the men in blue. They made this country, not bearded capitalist wizards clad in white robes.

written by theplasticpoet \\ tags: Burj Dubai, human rights, workers