Children at work : special health risks, report of a WHO study group, meeting held in Geneva from 10 to 16 December 1985

1. Introduction -- 2. International labour standards relating to child employment -- 3. Information on the health of children at work -- 4. Exposure to environmental agents -- 5. Working capacity and limitations -- 6. Special psychosocial risks -- 7. Health care of children at work -- 8. Conclusions and recommendations -- Annexes -- Acknowledgements -- References

Presents the conclusions and recommendations of a WHO study group convened to explore the special health risks to which children at work are exposed. In view of the paucity of information on this topic, the report makes a pioneering effort to define the nature and extent of health problems found in working children and to propose strategies for prevention at community, national, and international levels. The report also attempts to increase awareness of the special characteristics of children, including their emotional needs as well as physical limitations, that can enhance their vulnerability to occupational risks. Background information is provided in the opening sections, which examine statistical data on economically active children and discuss the content and application of international labour standards relating to child employment. Subsequent sections present and discuss groups of risk factors in the three main categories of exposure to environmental agents, factors relating to working capacity and limitations, and psychosocial factors. Readers are reminded that exposure limits recommended for adults are not necessarily adequate for protecting children, that work tools and personal protective equipment are usually designed for adult bodies, and that numerous psychosocial problems are attached to the special situation of being both a child and a worker.