The group of Valletta residents, Residenti Beltin, has penned a letter of complaint to Members of Parliament and other entities on the need for "comprehensive" health and safety inspections at all commercial establishments in Valletta, and across Malta and Gozo.

The face of the group, Billy J McBee, wrote to MPs from both sides of the House, as well as several government entities, including the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) and the enforcement units of several agencies, including the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA).

McBee said that there are some establishments such as restaurants, bars and cafeterias do not seem to be up to the required standards.

He continued that some do not have a toilet, some do not have any sound and light control or proofing, nor protection towards affecting residential/commercial zones which affect residents, visitors, workers' hearing.

"Given the significance of compliance for both the health and safety of workers and legal adherence, I urge all relevant entities to prioritize these inspections and ensure corrective measures are taken where necessary," McBee wrote.

He continued that these regulations were, and are designed to protect workers from risks ranging from mental and physical damage to exposure to any form of harmful elements, as well as to ensure safe conditions across various sectors.

"Therefore, based on the several Health and Safety at Work Acts and the related regulations, I would like to enquire and to receive confirmation followed by solid evidence that each and every authority has been and is doing proper and frequent monitoring and frequent inspections," McBee said.

These are "crucial," McBee said, whether via monthly or annual checks, to ensure full compliance with these provisions to safeguard the well-being of residents, workers, clients and visitors.

"I trust that with your leadership, we can ensure a safer environment for all individuals found in and nearby commercial establishments," McBee said.

He quoted several acts and regulations in the law, which he said the inspections should include, but not be limited to.

McBee mentioned the Health and Safety at Work Act, Work Places (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations, Protection of Young Persons at Work Places Regulations, Work Place (First Aid) Regulations, and others which the inspections should adhere to.

McBee added that in terms of safety, these concerns do not just limit to indoor premises, but also to outdoor spaces considered as work premises occupied by establishments and their workers which could be affected by temporary/permanent structures, decorative items, furniture, wires, lights and noise equipment which have been proven to be of hazards to both residents, visitors and workers.