By:Curtis Morton
Charlestown-Nevis- Thursday 20th April, was a significant day in the lives of some of the workers at the Nevis Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA).
On that day, some of the workers and more specifically those who work on the trucks, such as the chauffeurs and loaders and others who work intimately with the disposal area at the Landfill site, were issued with certain aspects of protective gear.
In a brief ceremony held at the premises of the Landfill and ably chaired by Manager at the Landfill site, Mr. Rudy Browne, the workers were presented with the gear, which included top quality polo shirts with the clear insignia of the Authority marked on it; specially designed gloves; high quality coveralls; and top of the line respirators
Prayer was offered by Procurement and Research officer at the NSWMA, Mr. Gladstone Edwards.
General Manager, Andrew Hendrickson, noted that the safety of the workers was always a priority but such protective gear were not forthcoming earlier, because of lack of funds.
As regards the gloves, of the EASY GRIP brand, he noted that they were comfortable and palm padded with rubber and the design and composition, makes them safer to use.
He stated that the respirators were of a higher quality than those previously used, complete with changeable filters.
He also used the opportunity to congratulate his staff for their hard work over the rainy weekend, when they cleaned up the area in short order despite the heavy muck caused by the inclement weather. He noted that although the ceremony was being held at the Land fill, there was a significant absence of flies.
He urged the general public to continue to cooperate with the standards that the authority is trying to promote and urged the staff to adhere to the safety standards and work ethics of the company.
Chairman of the NSWMA board, Mr. Carlyse BINGHI Pemberton, in his brief remarks stated that it was a real pleasure for him to be a part of the distribution of the protective equipment to the staff.
He mentioned that they have been doing a great job and took time out to congratulate them.
He indicated that from time to time it is very important for institutions to ensure that their members of staff are well taken care of with uniforms and other necessary tools. He asked the staff to wear and use the uniforms and equipment with pride and to uphold the standard for which the authority is recognized.
Staff member Miss Delores Esdaille then distributed the personalized bags with the gear, to the workers and the vote of thanks was delivered by another staff member, Miss Latoya Kelly.