Posted: December 12th, 2022

Exploration of occupational safety and health in ship breaking and recycling industry

Exploration of occupational safety and health in ship breaking and recycling industry
The ship breaking and recycling industry plays a crucial role in the global economy by providing raw materials for the construction and manufacturing industries. However, this industry is often associated with poor occupational safety and health (OSH) practices, leading to numerous injuries and fatalities among workers. In this research paper, we will explore the OSH challenges faced by workers in the ship breaking and recycling industry, and discuss potential solutions to improve the safety and health conditions in this industry.

Background:

The ship breaking and recycling industry involves the decommissioning of old, obsolete, or damaged ships for scrap metal and reusable materials. This process typically takes place in developing countries, where labor is cheap and environmental regulations are often lax. India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan are among the largest ship breaking countries in the world, accounting for over 75% of global ship breaking activity.

Due to the hazardous nature of ship breaking work, workers in this industry are at high risk of accidents and illnesses. Injuries are common due to the heavy physical demands of the job, exposure to hazardous substances, and inadequate safety equipment and training. Workers may also be at risk of long-term health effects due to exposure to asbestos, lead, and other toxic substances commonly found in ships.

OSH challenges in the ship breaking and recycling industry:

One of the major OSH challenges faced by workers in the ship breaking and recycling industry is the lack of adequate safety equipment and training. In many cases, workers are not provided with proper protective gear, such as hard hats, gloves, and safety glasses, to protect them from injuries. Additionally, they may not receive proper training on how to safely perform their tasks, leading to accidents and injuries.

Another significant OSH challenge in this industry is the presence of hazardous substances in ships, such as asbestos and lead. Asbestos, a known carcinogen, was commonly used in ships for insulation and fireproofing, and exposure to asbestos fibers can cause lung cancer and other serious health problems. Similarly, lead, another toxic substance, was commonly used in ships for piping and paint, and exposure to lead can cause neurological damage and other health effects.

Furthermore, the ship breaking and recycling industry is often associated with poor working conditions, including long working hours, inadequate rest and breaks, and unsafe working environments. In many cases, workers are not provided with sufficient rest and breaks, and are forced to work long hours in hot and cramped conditions. This can lead to physical exhaustion and increase the risk of accidents and injuries.

Solutions:

To address the OSH challenges faced by workers in the ship breaking and recycling industry, several solutions can be implemented. Firstly, proper safety equipment and training should be provided to workers

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