News article

In memory of factory fire victims in Bangladesh

Today my and H&M’s thoughts goes to the ones affected by the devastating fire at factory Garib Garib in Bangladesh 2010. Two years have passed since the tragic fire at the garment factory producing for H&M and other fashion brands.

As promised, we continue our long term support to the 25 children of the victims. The monthly payment to those children is monitored on a quarterly base by the NGO BRAC, to ensure the money reaches and benefit the children and that they are doing well and attending school. In November 2011 the first child who reached the age of 18 received 110.000 Thaka (100.000 Thaka + interest) as agreed from the fund that was set up for this purpose.

To improve fire safety in the Bangladeshi textile factories, we initiated a film project with the aim to educate employees as well as management in fire safety. Together with 18 other brands we have made two educational videos on fire safety that from 2012 onward will be used for awareness raising in factories in Bangladesh. The goal is to reach about 3 million workers in 4.500 factories in the Bangladeshi textile industry over the next two years, and to prevent fire as well as the health and the safety of the employees in case of a fire.

Helena Helmersson is our Head of Sustainability. Opinions expressed are her personal views and do not necessarily represent the official views of H&M. Do you have questions or feedback? Please click here.