Numerous studies of pollution prevention practices at industrial facilities demonstrate that production and maintenance workers can play an important role in identifying pollution prevention (P2) opportunities and implementing P2 projects. The evidence, however, indicates that most facilities have failed to deeply involve workers in P2 activities. And while P2 represents an important approach for reducing worker exposures, the evidence also suggests that the connections between worker health and safety and P2 strategies are often overlooked.
Survey responses from 149 industrial facilities in three states (NJ, IL, and TX), interviews with environmental managers at a smaller subset of these facilities, and additional qualitative data from several case studies of P2 activities at “best practice” facilities will be used to discuss factors that shape worker participation in P2 and the extent to which P2 projects are perceived to address worker exposures. Based on this facility level data, implications for using pollution prevention to achieve a more integrated approach to environmental and occupational health will be explored.
Learning Objectives: While Pollution Prevention represents an important approach for reducing worker exposures, the evidence also suggests that the connections between worker health and safety and P2 strategies are often overlooked. Based on survey and case study data, implications for using pollution prevention to achieve a more integrated approach to environmental and occupational health will be explored.
Keywords: Occupational Health, Environment
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.