EBRD promotes infrastructure works safety in Moldova

Chisinau, 30 September /MOLDPRES/- The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), in partnership with more British companies and civil society organisations, delivered free of charge cable location devices (CATs) and provided training on their use.

The new equipment will help to manage risks of digging near underground electric cables. An EBRD press release specifies that the equipment was donated by Hire Solutions British company, which is specialised in rental of equipment for constructions, maintenance and utilities. These devices will be used during excavation works within EBRD urban infrastructure rehabilitation projects in Moldova.

“This donation, supported by more British and Moldovan partners, will promote the best practices as to safety, which we hope to become soon a standard in Moldova,” Principal Health and Safety Advisor at the EBRD Derran Williams said.

Infrastructure rehabilitation projects, such as improvement of water and sewerage networks, often involve ground disturbances in urban areas, where live electrical services are present below ground. Unsafe digging exposes workers and third parties to the risk of fire, electrocutions and major service interruptions. 

Experts of Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) offered to train Moldovan employees as to use the equipment. The training started on 29 September and is hosted by Gas Natural Fenosa company. “The project promotes good health and safety practices and brings technologies meant even to save lives,” IOSH Executive Director of Policy Shelley Frost.

EBRD is the biggest institutional investor in Moldova, where it focuses on supporting activity of private sector, promoting European standards and regional integration, as well as development of sustainable and efficient public utilities. The Bank has invested so far almost 1 billion euros in over 100 projects.

(Reporter V. Bercu, Editor L. Alcaza)