Ahn Chang-ho, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), said regarding the Daejeon Anjeon Industrial fire that left 74 people dead or injured, "We urge the government to put in place fundamental measures so that similar disasters do not recur."
On the 27th, the Chairperson said in a statement, "The government and relevant agencies must thoroughly investigate the cause of this accident and make the findings public transparently to clarify who is responsible," and stated accordingly.
On the 20th, a fire broke out at Anjeon Industrial, an auto parts manufacturer in Daedeok-gu, Daejeon, killing 14 and injuring 60. While police and fire authorities are investigating, inadequate safety management and issues such as illegal additions to the building are being cited as factors that worsened the casualties.
The Chairperson said, "Relevant agencies need to closely examine the overall safety management system, including the status of safety management, how chemicals are handled, and the structure of building facilities."
She added, "We urge the government to continuously strengthen institutional and policy improvements to substantively guarantee workers' lives and safety at industrial sites," and said, "Practical safety measures must be put in place, including establishing a prevention-centered safety management system that meets international standards and strengthening oversight of high-risk business sites."
The Chairperson continued, "The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) also plans to prepare policy measures to heighten safety awareness on the ground," adding, "We will work to create an environment where all workers can work healthily in safe workplaces."