Business Report :
Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) is set to launch an “Employment Injury Scheme” (EIS) in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO) to provide financial benefits to workers in the garment sector of Export Processing Zones (EPZs) in cases of death or permanent disabilities due to workplace incidents. A ‘Letter of Intent’ was signed on Wednesday at the BEPZA Executive Office, involving BEPZA, ILO, and GIZ.
Under the EIS project, workers in the garment sector will receive a monthly financial benefit in the event of death or permanent disability resulting from workplace accidents or commutes. Initially focused on garment workers, the project will gradually expand to other sectors.
A similar initiative, named “EIS-Pilot,” was launched in June 2022, and this new agreement aims to extend the programme to EPZs. The project will be implemented by BEPZA with technical assistance from ILO and GIZ, and financial support from international brand buyers.
During the signing ceremony, BEPZA’s Executive Chairman, Major General Abul Kalam Mohammad Ziaur Rahman, praised the EIS project, stating, “This project will strengthen the social protection of workers in EPZs, contributing to sustainable industrial growth in Bangladesh.” He highlighted that the initiative aligns with international standards for social protection.
In addition to the EIS, BEPZA has established hospitals and medical centres in various EPZs to ensure free healthcare services for workers, along with day-care centres for their children. BEPZA-run schools also provide subsidised education for EPZ workers’ children, and various health protection awareness activities are conducted for workers.
Tuomo Poutiainen, Country Director of ILO, expressed satisfaction with BEPZA’s participation in the EIS project, stating, “This is a very good step for worker welfare.
I thank BEPZA’s investors because they will be the ones to implement it. I am hopeful for the success of this project.”
Dr. Anne Marie La Rosa, Senior Technical Expert of the EIS Pilot Project, presented an overview of the EIS during the event.
Currently, BEPZA operates eight EPZs across the country, with the BEPZA Economic Zone in Mirsharai, Chattogram, and is developing two more EPZs in Patuakhali and Jashore districts.
