Article Text
Abstract
Introduction Occupational health and safety in Developing countries has been a preoccupation in this two last decades. The growing number of occupational accidents and diseases attract the attention of Developed countries on these working conditions. This shows that the situation is urgent and that action must be taken quickly.
Methods Occupational health is not a priority in Developing countries. In order to understand this, we proceed to a SWOT analysis. It gives us a vision about each country’s level. Also, this analysis is based on bibliographic search which contains studies and statistics of international organisations such as ILO.
Results ILO has always been involved in this cause. Although some countries have adopted occupational health and safety prevention strategies, others are still very far away.
ILO has created a structure to put in place a national occupational health and safety profile, culture and policies all across the world. That is the first step to reduce occupational accidents and diseases.
Discussion This must be a concern for developed countries and international organisations. Unfortunately, political instability or financial crises can sometimes block the efforts made or simply prevent progress. This being said, we must set up alliances between cultures and countries. For example, France with African French speaking countries or Scandinavian countries with African English speaking countries. These alliances will allow the development of several key improvements such as information and training systems should be put in place to reduce workplace hazards; use low-cost and country-specific protection systems.
Conclusion In order to improve this, countries with well-functioning health and safety policies should be able to help them develop an occupational health culture with the help of the governments, employers and workers. This collaboration will help establishing an action plan in order to improve the situation in developing countries.