Health Hazards and Labour Laws in Bangladesh: A Narrative-based Study on Women Garment Workers

Abstract:
There are labour laws pertinent to health issues of garment workers in Bangladesh. The laws cover work hours, wages, sick leave, maternity leave and benefits, compensation and other working environment related issues. Because of the lack of implementation and/or violation of the laws, workers often suffer from health hazards both at work and at home. The problem is compounded by the fact that workers are unaware of many of the laws and the benefits they are entitled to because of lack of education and resources. The Bangladesh government, garment employers and different international and national NGOs have important roles to play in reducing the health hazards of workers. The paper discusses different types of illnesses and through narratives of women garment workers explores health hazards experienced by them. It also suggests solutions for policy-makers, NGO activists, employers and workers.