Metehara Chemical Plant Workers Complain of Acid Harm

By Gubae Gundarta

Workers of Universal Metals and Minerals Private Ltd. Company, which is located in East Shoa Zone, Fentale Woreda, near Metehara town, said they were being harmed by acidic substances due to unheeded safety precautions by their employer.

Chairman of the labor union, Wondwossen Gashaw said sulfuric acid, lead- aluminum and plastic materials which all contain chemicals that are potentially harmful to the body were produced by the plant. “Lack of precautionary care for the workers has been causing serious corporal damage. Results of medical examination of some workers indicate that they have buildups of acid on their livers.”

Asked if the labor union had properly brought the matter to the attention of the management, the chairman pointed out that they did so on several occasions but the administration did not respond adequately. “Protective materials would be doled out biannually before. Now it has been over nine months but the employees have received none.”

Samuel Solomon, a zonal official, said his office was aware of the fact that there were problems between the labor union and the management of the company. “Both parties were trained on the country’s labor provision and issues pertaining to safety precaution. We also advised them to handle their subject of constant disagreement with discussion rather than proceeding to the court,” he added.

Scientific studies reveal that lead chemicals can cause serious harm to the spinal column, the circulatory and reproductive systems, among other things.

NewsDire Staff Writer