Methodology for the development of effective occupational health programs in developing countrie

The purpose of this research is to outline a methodology by which effective occupational health programs could be implemented concurrent with industrial development in the industrially developing world (DW). The methodology is grounded firmly in case studies based on the experience of the industrially developed world (IW). It is hoped that the application of these case studies will enable the user of the methodology to determine where intervention points might help protect the health and safety of workers.;The three specific industrial substances selected here for case studies are benzene, asbestos, and silica. Each has been a major source of epidemics of occupationally related disease in the industrial world. Each is analyzed in depth with the intent of identifying points at which intervention might have prevented disease. Together they represent both the old and the new industrial world: asbestos and silica have been in the workplace for many centuries; benzene is a product of the Industrial Revolution. The use of all three substances has increased since the Industrial Revolution, and each has become mainstay material in the modern industrial world. In each case, use began with virtually no knowledge of potential dangers. In each case, massive occupational exposures resulted.;Technology transfer to the DW can be expected to continue until an equilibrium is reached between the technology of the IW and the DW. Benzene, asbestos, and silica will, of course, continue to play key roles as technology is transferred. Many other substances and materials that are capable of causing occupational illness, disease and death are, of course, being introduced into the developing world each year. Each new substance or technology should be analyzed, and in its analysis should not overlook the many climatic, cultural, demographic, anthropometric and other differences between the DW and IW.;The user of this research is encouraged to follow such an approach, as described herein, prior to the development or implementation of prevention programs directed at the reduction of worker hazards associated with industrialization within the developing world. (Abstract shortened with permission of author.).