Occupational Health and Safety (OHAS) crisis in tanneries of Bangladesh: Is this the violation of labor rights?

Abstract

Tannery business in Bangladesh is one of the oldest manufacturing sub-sectors and it has huge growth potential. It has been remained profitable venture since its inception. However, this sector has got adverse affect both in human life and environment. Employees who work for tanneries face severe health hazards and people live in neighborhood are also affected by environmental pollutions. Toxic exposure of chemicals in tanneries of Bangladesh violates health and safety compliances. Both workers and neighborhood people of tanneries suffer from gastrointestinal, respiratory, jaundice, hypertension and skin diseases due to inefficient and improper waste management system. Tanneries in Bangladesh have failed to maintain Occupational Health and Safety (OHAS) which is also the violation of labor right. This may lead to labor unrest in near future like RMG sector in Bangladesh. This study explores the current health and safety practices at tanneries in Bangladesh. Health problems and challenges of tannery workers are also reported in this research, and some recommendations are made at the end as possible remedy.

Key Words: Tannery, Occupational Health and Safety (OHAS), Labor Right & Unrest.