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Monitors test the environment of this industrial plant in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria. They make
sure noise and ventilation are at safe levels.
[Rumen Zahariev, Manager, BRB Engineering] We usually measure the level of noise, vibrations,
and micro-climate once a year.
With their entry into the European Union in 2007, Bulgaria’s businesses must meet EU
standards in occupational safety and health.
[Annie Rice, Subregional Office for Central and Eastern Europe, ILO]
EU legislation and the accession process is one of the biggest incentives for improving
health and safety in Bulgaria.
In order to help small and medium-sized businesses reach these standards, the Bulgarian Industrial
Association has set up an affordable safety and health monitoring service.
[Ivan Lenkov, Director, Industrial Association Stara Zagora]
The occupational safety agency was established in 2002. In 2003, a big co-project was started
together with the International Labour Organization and the National Industrial Association. Its
aim is to develop services for small to medium-sized businesses so they can meet requirements of
the law for health and safety working conditions regulations and the European Union requirements.
Other local employers, such as flower producers, are positive about the agency’s services.
[Prof. Nedko Nedkov, Director, Institute of Roses and Aromatic Plants]
I think it goes in the right direction. Much more attention is drawn to the health and
safety working conditions. After becoming a member of the European Union and adopting
the European laws, the situation will be much more favorable and more will be directed towards
people’s health.
With an accident rate twice as high as in the EU member states, attention to better
occupational safety comes none too soon.
The project is a model for other countries in the region and puts occupational safety
firmly on the horizon for an expanding EU. 12/09/2011 - 1 -