Working conditions and environment: problems in Asia and the Pacific

Abstract

There is a growing concern over the effects of recent industrialisation and mechanisation on working conditions and environment. It is now generally accepted that the improvement of working conditions and environment and well-being of workers in developing countries cannot be "put off to a better tomorrow", and that this improvement must proceed side by side with social and economic development. This concern is reflected in the International Labour Organisation's (ILO) International Programme for the Improvement of Working Conditions and Environment, which is known as "PIACT" after its French initials. The PIACT in Asia was launched in 1976. During the last eight years, many countries have chosen to formulate national policies in line with this International Programme. National tri- partite seminars on PIACT issues were held in Bangladesh, Burma, Indo- nesia, Korea, Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand. A number of technical co-operation projects have been undertaken in these and other countries. Among the orientation of the PIACT approach, the important point is that it treats problems of working conditions and occupational safety and health globally, and that it seeks to use the different means of action in a co-ordinated fashion. The extent of effects on workers and the content of national policies naturally different from country to country. Nevertheless, certain similarities are seen in the priorities. Particularly important are the acute effects of recent industrialisation in many countries.