The era of world trade presents increased risks of occupational illness/injury to vulnerable workers, including child/adolescent workers, women workers, older workers, workers of minority populations, and migrant workers, especially in newly industrialized and less developed nations. Specific hazards range from metals, pesticides, solvents and other chemicals to ergonomic and safety hazards from poorly designed, inadequately maintained, and improperly functioning machinery. Inadequate implementation of laws and regulations, inadequate health and safety training and personal protective equipment, export of hazardous materials from more developed nations, and low participation in labor unions all contribute to these risks. A systemic approach to reduce these risks includes: (a) building global partnerships among trade unions and universities; (b) strengthening unions and nongovernmental organizations within countries; (c) improving health and safety education for vulnerable workers; (d) using media and the internet to publicize the plight of these workers; and (e) advocating for specific policies to reduce risks.
Learning Objectives: By the end of the presentation, attendees will be able to describe a systematic approach for protecting vulnerable workers from occupational hazards in the era of world trade
Keywords: Occupational Health, International
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: none
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.