Blacksmiths in Ipalogama, A'pura receive safety kits and gears from Berendina

Berendina recently conducted a Health and Safety Awareness Programme for blacksmiths in Kottalbadda in Ipalogama, Anuradhapura. 
This special session was organized by the Berendina Micro Investments Company Ltd (BMIC) Branch in Ipalogama on September 25. Berendina said in a media release that it has been supporting and encouraging many rural industries in its 11 operational districts in Sri Lanka. 
One of the traditional industries of Sri Lanka with a long history of making iron and wrought iron tools, many rural villagers engage in this industry as their main livelihood activity. People in Kottalbadda are famed for their specialised skills in iron and metal works and have been engaged in this industry for many generations. 
Due to the high prices in purchasing protective gears and no proper knowledge on how to use them every day, most of the blacksmiths ignore wearing them and take a great deal of risk in their day-to-day work environment. This attitude creates safety issues as well as health complications in a longer run. 
To mitigate this prolonged issue, Berendina organized a Health and Safety Awareness Programme at Ipalogama Branch for 15 micro credit clients attached to the BMIC branch who are into iron work industry. The objective of the session was to enhance their knowledge and importance of taking safety precautions and wearing safety gears.
The special safety awareness presentation was presented by Kasun Dissanayake, Environmental Coordinator, BMIC. Ms. A. G. Kusumawathi, Agricultural Research Officer of Kekirawa DS Office, Ms. D. M. P. Dissanayake, Samurdhi Development Officer of Ipalogama DS Office, Ms. Sujani Amanthi, Development Officer, Ipalogama DS Office along with Berendina Officials were also present at the session. At the end of the awareness session, the participants received safety overall, goggles, gloves and noise reduction ear plugs sponsored by Stromme Micro Credit Guarantee Ltd.

Above. The session in progress.