The Malta Labour Party yesterday expressed concern at a 7.4 per cent jump in accidents at the workplace.

In a statement, deputy leader Anglu Farrugia said that the Occupational Health and Safety Authority performs its functions well, but has not yet flexed enough muscle in getting employers to train workers professionally to reduce accidents and increase safety at work.

He also said that the OHSA did not issue figures about the issue as the National Statistics Office had. It said that the latest figures on the OHSA website date back to 26 April 2008. He suggested that all employers should have professionals who can educate workers about being safe at work.

He also said that workers should be more aware and conscious of dangers at work and possible dangerous practices. He also called on the government to increase the OHSA’s resources so as to allow it to function better.