Workers from outsourced companies would be subject to a work routine of up to 12 hours a day
The (Public Ministry of Labor) reported on Thursday (November 28, 2024) that it had opened an investigation to investigate working conditions in the construction works of the factory of , a Chinese electric car manufacturer, which will be installed in Camaçari (BA), approximately 50 km from Salvador. Here is the release (PDF – 37 kB).
Second of Agency PublicChinese workers from outsourced companies were being subjected to working hours of up to 12 hours a day, with no weekly day off and no access to drinking water. There are reports of physical attacks by superiors, including kicks.
The agency said it began investigations after receiving an anonymous accusation on September 30. Since then, it has been collecting information to prepare a conduct adjustment proposal or, if necessary, legal action.
On November 11, an inspection was carried out at the construction site.
In addition to the inspection report, the MPT is awaiting documents requested from BYD and 3 other companies contracted for the work (Open Steel and AE Cor). Documents include copies of employment contracts, visas for foreign workers and accident prevention and occupational health plans.
The prosecutor responsible for the investigation, Bernardo Guimarães, stated that a new inspection is not ruled out.
“The information obtained so far indicates the need for correction in procedures related to the work environment, in order to guarantee the health and safety of employees”these.
Guimarães also argued that reports of physical attacks need to be investigated.
On Monday (Dec 2), the Minister of the Civil House, and the governor of Bahia, Jerônimo Rodrigues (PT), will participate in a technical visit to the works at the factory in Camaçari. They will be accompanied by the company’s CEO for the Americas and Europe, Stella Li.
THE OTHER SIDE
In a note (here is – PDF 29 kB), BYD did not respond specifically to the accusations of violence. He stated that he has been operating in Brazil for 10 years “strictly complying with local laws”.
The company informed that JinJiang is the construction company responsible for the works. And, as it is a very specific type of building, “operates in several countries where BYD expands operations”.
According to the automaker, “the works at the factory in Camaçari, Bahia, meet all legal standards, including the installation license obtained in 2024 and approved by the State government”. He mentioned that the investment of R$5.5 billion could create more than 20,000 jobs.
