Occupational health and safety for Sustainable Development of women

In today‘s world, the concept of sustainability is attracting considerable attention as many governments have integrated it in their economic development strategies. Sustainable development relies on several principles for framing its actions, many of which can clearly be applied to occupational health and safety. These principles include the necessity for attention to be given to the health and quality of life of people, to the prevention of known risks and to the application of precaution when there is uncertainty with regard to the risks. It may thus be considered that occupational health and safety (OHS) and prevention of injuries and diseases are issues of concern with regard to sustainability. Occupational health and safety is an area of concern for all those who work outside their homes. It is the right of every worker to be able to work in a healthy and safe place. There is little awareness about workplace hazards due to lack of access to information or even any kind of formal education. The impact of OSH hazard on women and children would be harder. In addition to paid work, women also do other demanding jobs like cooking, cleaning, and childcare. Due to uncomfortable positions at workplaces and that too for log hours, women develop musculoskeletal disorders. Pregnant women working with chemicals like solvents will be exposed to chemical poisoning and as result, their fetuses are also exposed to chemical poisoning. A good indicator of economic and social inclusion for women is the availability and access to employment. Employment empowers women in many ways. However certain work environments make women workers more vulnerable to certain risks. Policies and programs in the workplace should be formulated and adopted for the promotion of the rights and welfare of women who are seen as crucial partners in attaining a nation‘s economic and sustainable development more so in the unorganized sectors which do not fall under the purview of legislations.