Lafarge workshop to develop masonry industry

Lafarge Mahaweli Cement recently held a workshop for masons to sensitise on how to increase their work productivity and quality standards through the use of innovative and secure methods of working.

The workshop, which was also in line with Lafarge’s global objective to prevent accidents through awareness and safe behaviour, was held at the ‘Riverdale Resort’ in Aluthgama. A large number of senior Masons with over 15 years experience in building construction around the Aluthgama area, participated in the workshop.

Sunil Kapuge, expert in the construction profession addressing the workshop said that not only should masons concentrate on using modern methods but they also needed to ensure that they were working in secure conditions.

Area Sales Manager for Lafarge Senaka Gunathilake commented that since masons work in a high risk industry, often with no life insurance to fall back on, it is necessary for them to ensure that their work techniques and environs are secure.

Masons participating in the programme also said that the workshop was extremely timely as there is lot of activity in the construction industry across the country. They learned several new ways of approaching their work- and reinforced the importance of the health and safety aspects in their daily work.

Another factor highlighted by Kapuge was that today there is a scarcity of youth coming forward to adapt this vocation as a profession; and by introducing proper standards it could become a vocation many Sri Lankan youth would find desirable.  

By assisting in the development of the masonry industry in Sri Lanka, Lafarge Mahaweli is also working in line with the national plan to create a highly proficient and employable workforce in the country.

A number of senior officials and members of staff of Lafarge Mahaweli Cement Pvt. Ltd. were present at the workshop.