Apparel makers have raised concern over the activities of recently formed new platform ‘Nirapon’ alleging that it has been creating confusion over safety standards and adding new cost burden in the name of monitoring and training. They also alleged that Nirapon is creating market for service providers, especially for local training provider (LTP) and qualified assessment firm (QAF), which the manufacturers cannot afford after investing huge amount of money in the industry to ensure workplace safety during last five years. The concerns were raised at a views exchange meeting of stakeholders organised by Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) on September 29. Nirapon has been formed this year by 23 brands and retailers, including Walmart, based on North America. Majority of them were the signatory of Alliance that folded its operation in last December. Alliance inspected fire, electrical and structural integrity of some 700 garment factories and remediated the flaws in last five years after the Rana Plaza building collapse. Almost all the meeting participants expressed concern over the high cost they have to bear ranging from $400 to $12,000 to maintain Nirapon’s prescription. The factory owners also alleged in the meeting that Nirapon is implementing the same training module of Alliance.
