Challenges in the fight against pneumoconiosis in Asia

Occupational safety and health (OSH) is emerging as an important concern in rapidly developing Asian countries. Many countries have taken steps to improve national programs on occupational safety and health, including the enactment of comprehensive OSH legislation. However, progress in the fight against occupational diseases has been rather limited. Although millions of workers are exposed to dust hazards, very few pneumoconiosis cases, or none at all, have been reported, except in countries like China, Mongolia and Vietnam where medical surveillance systems are well-established. The lack of data on pneumoconiosis hampers the development of preventive programs. Steps in the fight against pneumoconiosis include: 1) improving the national mechanism for medical surveillance of workers exposed to dust, including review of legislation; 2) training doctors in diagnosing pneumoconiosis; 3) establishing a network of environmental monitoring services; 4) developing practical engineering dust-control measures; and 5) raising an awareness and training in managers and workers. Thorough discussions between the government and employers' and workers' organizations at a forum such as a national tripartite OSH advisory body, are crucial for developing effective mechanisms for mobilizing financial and technical resources.