Occupational Cancer Convention, 1974

Occupational Cancer Convention, 1974 (Convention No. 139) is an International Labour Organization (ILO) convention aimed at the prevention and control of occupational hazards that cause cancer, promoting the health and safety of workers. Adopted on June 24, 1974, the convention entered into force on June 28, 1977. It represents a significant international effort to address the risks of cancer in the workplace through the implementation of preventive measures, the provision of information, and the establishment of principles for national policies and programs.

Overview

The Occupational Cancer Convention, 1974, sets forth the principle that national policies should aim to prevent the incidence of occupational cancer by controlling, and where possible, eliminating carcinogenic substances and agents in the work environment. It emphasizes the importance of protecting workers from carcinogens as a part of broader occupational safety and health measures.

Key Provisions

The convention outlines several key provisions for member states, including:

• The identification and control of carcinogens in the workplace.
• The substitution of less harmful substances for known carcinogens, where possible.
• The provision of information and training to workers about the risks of exposure to carcinogens and the measures available for protection.
• The establishment of permissible exposure limits to carcinogenic substances, based on the latest scientific data.
• The implementation of health surveillance for workers exposed to carcinogens, to facilitate early detection of occupational cancer.

Implementation

For the implementation of the convention's provisions, member states are required to enact legislation and develop national policies and programs that align with the convention's objectives. This includes the regulation of industrial processes, the use of chemicals, and the management of waste to minimize the release of carcinogens into the workplace.

Challenges and Impact

While the convention has been instrumental in raising awareness and prompting action against occupational cancer, its implementation faces challenges. These include the need for updated scientific research to identify new carcinogens, the difficulty in enforcing regulations, especially in small and medium-sized enterprises, and the need for international cooperation to address cross-border issues related to occupational cancer.

See Also

• International Labour Organization
• Occupational Safety and Health
• Carcinogen
• Cancer