Advancing worker health and safety in the developing world

OBJECTIVES: Working conditions in the developing world seldom meet the minimum standards required by international agencies. This article addresses some of the major obstacles to occupational and environmental health and suggests methods by which they can be overcome. METHODS: International agencies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labor Organization (ILO) offer a number of programs that address the problem. RESULTS: The results of international efforts to date have been disappointing. There is a need for renewed efforts on the part of international agencies and the developed countries. CONCLUSIONS: Occupational health and safety can be advanced in the developing world with modest funding of innovative programs.