YPSA’s Training of Trainers Program: Ensuring Safe Cutting Practice in Shipbreaking Yards

YPSA has organized eight TOTs on Safe handling of asbestos for the ship recycling workers of Bangladesh. YPSA successfully trained 200 workers on the safe cutting practice by conducting eight comprehensive training sessions across various shipbreaking yards. This one of the unique and first ever activities of such kinds by NGOs like YPSA. YPSA with the collaboration of BSBRA (Owner’s Association) have been organizing these TOTs for developing the capacities of the workers in line with the national and international relevant manuals and guidelines.

YPSA Coordinator Muhammed Ali Shahin committed to continuing these training programs to further enhance worker safety.  He says, our aim is to ensure that more workers receive essential training in safe asbestos handling practices. By doing so, we strive to create a safer, healthier working environment for all the workers in the shipbreaking industry of Bangladesh.

Since 2000, Young Power in Social Action (YPSA) has undertaken a comprehensive range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the conditions and rights of workers in Bangladesh. Their multifaceted approach includes advocacy and awareness campaigns, in-depth research and documentation, direct support for workers, policy influence, and initiatives to improve worker safety, environmental impact, labor rights, occupational health and safety, and fair wages. In recent years, YPSA has placed a significant emphasis on worker safety, particularly within the shipbreaking industry—a sector known for its hazardous working conditions.

In response to the pressing need for improved safety standards, YPSA has initiated a robust Training of Trainers (ToTs) program focused on the safe three-stage cutting of ships. This program is being implemented across several major shipbreaking yards, namely H.M Ship Breaking Industries Limited, Arab Ship Breaking & Recycling Limited, Taher & Co. Ltd., T. R. Ship Breakers Limited, K R Ship Recycling Yard, Premium Trade Corporation Limited, MAK Corporation, and M/S. Taihua Steel Enterprise. The ToTs program is designed to be comprehensive, incorporating both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The theoretical sessions cover critical aspects of safety protocols and regulations, while the practical training is conducted on-site in the yards, providing workers with hands-on experience directly relevant to their daily tasks.

Each training session is structured to include 25 participants, ensuring focused and effective instruction. To date, a total of 200 workers have successfully completed the ToTs program on the safe handling of asbestos. These trained trainers are now equipped to share their expertise with their colleagues, fostering a culture of safety and knowledge dissemination within the yards. The Bangladesh Ship Breakers and Recyclers Association (BSBRA) has been instrumental in supporting YPSA by facilitating the organization and execution of these training sessions.

YPSA’s commitment to worker safety is ongoing, with plans to continue and expand these training programs to further improve safety standards and working conditions in the shipbreaking industry. By empowering workers with the necessary skills and knowledge, YPSA aims to create a safer and more sustainable work environment for all.