(MENAFN- The Peninsula) Qatar Foundation (QF)is planning to launch a hotline to receive complaints and suggestions from workers employed on its projects about their living conditions, a senior official has said.
He also warned contractors of stern action if they fail to comply with QF's Mandatory Standards of Migrant Workers' Welfare for Contractors and Subcontractors.
"Complying with the law and QF regulations is the primary condition for being eligible for future contracts with QF. Any supplier, contractor or subcontractor that violates this basic criterian will not be considered for any QF contracts," Engineer Jassim M Telefat, Group Executive Director, QF's Capital Projects and Facilities Management, told a recent conference at Qatar National Convention Centre, attended by more than 500 contractors.
"It is the responsibility of every contractor, subcontractor and supplier to ensure they self-audit their practices"We are doing our utmost to ensure everyone working with QF has a good quality of life, respectable living conditions and an appropriate work environment," he added.
The conference, by QF's Health, Safety, Security and Environment Directorate (HSSE) and Procurement Directorate (PD), also aimed to raise awareness of QF's new HSSE pre-qualification criteria.
With immediate effect, all contractors and subcontractors are expected to adhere to the guidelines to be eligible for any upcoming strategic tenders.
He also revealed a plan to launch a hotline for workers so they can lodge complaints and suggestions regarding their living and working conditions.
"We will be creating a helpline where workers can report any violations. These are the key factors for achieving the QF vision to unlock human potential and improve the standard of living of those living in Qatar."
He said a special department within QF has been created to address all workers' welfare issues. It would also conduct regular assessments and inspections of all contractors to ensure they are complying with the criteria.
Last April, QF launched the new workers' welfare Mandatory Standards, which combine the Qatari Labour Law and international best practice. Through its mandatory standards, QF has introduced minimum requirements in relation to recruitment, living and working conditions, and the general treatment of workers in construction and other projects.
Sheikha Amal Al Thani, HSSE Acting Executive Director, Mohammed Bakhamis, HSSE Director, Christopher Newman, Welfare Manager, Ameena Ahmadi, acting Technical Director, the Capital Projects Directorate, Abdulla N Al Naemi, Procurement Director, Mohammed D Al Dosari, Strategic Sourcing Senior Manager, and Ahmed Abdi, Strategic Sourcing Manager, were present.
Ameena Ahmadi spoke about QF's Education City Master Plan and projects and future construction opportunities.
In a separate presentation, Roger Griffiths, Director of Design Entrepreneurship at Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, showcased Research and Development initiatives being implemented for migrant workers.
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