NSWMA says workers’ safety major priority as employees raise concern following death of sanitation officer

The National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) has sought to assure that the safety of its workers is a major priority.

The assurance comes amidst a protest by several employees of MPM Waste Management Limited this morning.

The workers, who gathered at the entrance of the company’s Spanish Town Road office, are concerned about their safety following the death of a sanitation officer.

Garfield Johnson was rushed to hospital after suffering severe burns while on duty in Greenwich Farm, St. Andrew on January 16.

He succumbed to his injuries yesterday.

Speaking with IRIE FM News, NSWMA’s Executive Director, Audley Gordon, stressed that though safety measures are in place, there can be no guarantee that tragic incidents will not happen.

Mr. Gordon noted that the NSWMA is mourning the loss of a valued member of its team.

He said the protest will impact today’s operations in some areas.

In a statement this morning, the NSWMA expressed condolences to Mr. Johnson’s family, friends and colleagues.

The Authority said Mr. Johnson’s passing is a painful reminder of the risks faced daily by sanitation workers, as they serve communities across Jamaica.

The NSWMA also noted that the police are investigating the circumstances that led to the incident.