Development and Implementation of an Occupational Safety and Health Management Program for the Small- to Medium-Sized, Indigenous, Privately Owned Enterprise in Pakistan

Abstract

Most industrial activity and growth in countries like Pakistan is, and is expected to be, in the private sector. Many of these industries are small to medium sized and wholly indigenously owned with no external technical support. They are often situated in urban slums or industrial parks in under developed parts of the country, or are backyard cottage industries in rural areas. For an occupational safety and health management program to be relevant in this setting, it must be proactive and broad based, and must encourage community involvement. People already working in the community need to be sensitized to and given training in occupational safety and health issues. Whereas legislation is already in place and is expected to be further strengthened due to the externalities of international environmental and occupational ratifications and treaties, the initial effect will mainly be on large public sector corporations, multinationals, and export-driven industries. The health of workers and their families cannot wait for the effects of legislation and its enforcement to trickle down to the informal sector. Workers must have minimal knowledge of the hazards they face in order to make informed decisions. In addition, they must have access to a minimal level of care and advice.