Polluting Industries, Environment and Workers Health-A Case for Intervention

The polluting industries expose both the workers and the environment to hazardous substances. These industries are characterised by an insufficient and hazardous use of labour and an excessive use of natural resources. Thus the issues of betterment of working conditions inside the industries and environmental protection outside it, are closely interlinked. Occupational health is an essential part of working conditions, since most of the health problems occur among workers exposed to unhealthy substances and dangerous situations. The awareness regarding the interlinkages of workers' interests, occupational health and environmental protection is increasing, as reflected in some recent initiatives and legal interventions.