OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH HAZARDS OF LIVESTOCK WORKERS IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

One third of the world's population is engaged in agriculture sector that makes it the second largest source of employment worldwide including the female population. In developing countries, the agriculture holds 44% of employment share. While agriculture sector in South Asia employs 40% of the people. Livestock workers have to be in close contact with animals and different types of the machinery resulting in high risks of accidents and occupational hazards/ diseases. Environmental factors are also not optimal. Ergonomic difficulties are common i.e. bad working postures, repetitive movements and forceful exertions. A National Occupational Safety and Health Council could be established to protect the health of working folk by legislation and its implementation throughout the country.