The Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Ministry’s National Occupational Health and Safety Services 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 took place on November 4, around 8:00 am, while the tourist was swimming alone.
Initial investigations have raised questions regarding the resort’s safety measures and protocols for guest activities, including the adequacy of supervision, rescue, and evacuation procedures. In response, the National Occupational Health and Safety Services is working closely with relevant authorities to obtain necessary medical and autopsy reports from the Fiji Police Force, which will aid in their inquiry.
Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh emphasized the importance of the resort management’s role in identifying potential hazards and implementing effective control strategies to mitigate the risk of similar incidents occurring in the future. He stated, “The hotel management must adequately identify all potential hazards and implement appropriate control strategies to prevent similar incidents in the future. The full report will be produced once the investigation is completed.”
Following the investigation, the National Occupational Health and Safety Services will compile a comprehensive report. Additionally, the agency routinely inspects all workplaces, including resorts, to ensure compliance with safety regulations and takes action against any violations.
This investigation highlights the commitment to improving safety standards within the hospitality industry, with hopes that such measures will enhance the protection of all guests in the future.
In summary, the investigation into the tragic drowning incident underscores the need for stringent safety protocols in resorts, with hopes that this inquiry will lead to improvements that will protect future visitors.
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