The Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Ministry in Fiji is currently investigating the tragic drowning of a 50-year-old Japanese tourist at the Fiji Hideaway Resort in Sigatoka earlier this month. The incident occurred around 8:00 AM on November 4, while the tourist was swimming alone.
Preliminary investigations are examining whether the resort had adequate safety systems and procedures in place for guest activities, focusing on supervision, rescue operations, and evacuation protocols. The National Occupational Health and Safety Services (NOHSS) is working closely with local authorities to gather medical and autopsy reports from the Fiji Police Force to aid in the investigation.
Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh emphasized the importance of the resort management in recognizing potential hazards and developing effective control strategies to avert future incidents. He stated, “The hotel management must adequately identify all potential hazards and implement appropriate control strategies to prevent similar incidents in the future.” A comprehensive report will be released upon the conclusion of the investigation.
Furthermore, the NOHSS routinely inspects workplaces, including resorts, to ensure compliance with safety regulations and issues enforcement notices for any identified violations. This commitment to safety aims to enhance the overall security and experience of all guests visiting Fiji’s beautiful resorts.
The proactive measures being taken reflect a dedication to improving safety standards in the hospitality industry, ensuring that such unfortunate incidents are less likely to occur in the future. This scenario serves as a reminder of the need for ongoing vigilance regarding guest safety in recreational settings.
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