Regulation of Occupational Health and Safety in the Semiconductor Industry: Enforcement Problems and Solutions

Citation

Watterson A (2006) Regulation of Occupational Health and Safety in the Semiconductor Industry: Enforcement Problems and Solutions. International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, 12, pp. 72-80. http://www.ijoeh.com/index.php/ijoeh

Abstract
Reports of high incidences of occupational illnesses in the semiconductor industry should have triggered global investigations and rigorous inspection of the industry. Yet semiconductor plants remain essentially unregulated. Health and safety standards are inadequate and enforcement is lax. Roles for stakeholders in laying down good practice, monitoring, and regulating are proposed, and obstacles are described. Effective regulation has advantages for the industry as well as workers. Conditions for best practice include education at all levels, protection and support for labor inspectors, government commitment to enforcing laws, recognition of the right of workers to organize, and recognition of their rights.

Keywords
semiconductor industry; microelectronics industry; legislation; labor unions; worker participation

Journal
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health: Volume 12