To get a better picture about construction workers, the employees provident fund organisation (EPFO) has decided to gather data on the number of labourers employed in Goa’s construction industry. Once the data is collated, EPFO will conduct awareness programmes and welfare measures for the workers.
EPFO regional office in Goa has been asked to get information on construction workers from the Goa Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), the Building and other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board and Credai.
“Suitable action to obtain information about the establishments, contractors, workforce engaged in the construction activities will be taken immediately. Upon identifying the targets, necessary action for conduct of awareness programmes are being initiated,” said a note issued by the Goa EPFO regional office.
EPFO wants to create awareness about the Employees Provident Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Act (EPF & MP Act) among workers as well as employers and contractors. This was discussed at the 231st EPFO board meeting where the zonal and regional offices were asked to get details of establishments and manpower engaged in construction activities
The aim, said EPFO officials, is to ensure that social security scheme benefits reach grassroot employees and construction workers.
“The Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Services) Act, 1996 has been enacted to address the concerns regarding safety, health and welfare of a larger number of workers employed in the construction sector,” the EPFO official said.
The EPFO will conduct webinars, awareness programmes and other activities for industry stakeholders and workers to encourage them to enrol under the EPF and MP Act.
“Suitable officers will be deputed to the identified construction sites for conducting awareness programmes who will also share necessary information with the construction workers about social security benefits available under EPF & MP Act, 1952 and the schemes,” said the EPFO.
EPFO wants to create awareness about the Employees Provident Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Act among workers as well as employers and contractors. It will conduct webinars, awareness programmes and other activities for industry stakeholders and workers to encourage them to enrol under the EPF and MP Act
