5 May, 2009A coalition of 11 global unions together representing over 300 million members in more than 150 countries are campaigning for "zero cancer", tackling the number one workplace killer. Over 600,000 deaths a year - one death every 52 seconds -are caused by occupational cancer, making up almost one-third of all work-related deaths.
Work started it. Unions will stop it.
Occupational cancer is the most common work-related cause of death. The International Labour Organisation estimates the human toll at over 600,000 deaths a year - one death every 52 seconds.
At least 1 in every 10 cancers - probably many more - is the result of preventable, predictable workplace exposure. Today, more people face a workplace cancer risk than at any other time in history. It's just that most of them don't know it.
Unions have won recognition of causes of occupational cancer, restrictions on their use and compensation for their victims. By finding out about workplace risks and taking action to eliminate, substitute or control the risks, workers and their unions can make the workplace safer.
Occupational Cancer/Zero Cancer is a global union campaign to prevent occupational cancer. On this campaign page you will find links to campaign materials, background information and other relevant resources, including:
- Trade union guide to preventing occupational cancer
- Trade union guide to a prevent cancer campaign
- Asbestos kills. Ban it now - campaign page