Women, work and health in Egypt

ABSTRACT

The special occupational health problems of working women are recognized in both the developing and industrialized countries. In the former, heavy physical work, the double work burden of job and family, less developed working methods and traditional social roles are the factors that increase the burden of female workers. In the industrialized countries, where women also have the double work burden, lower-paid manual jobs are often left to female workers. Also the design of machinery and work tools are often made according to male anthropometry although female workers use such equipments. Women may also face problems of occupational exposures that are hazardous to reproductive health. In many service occupations the female workers may be exposed to the threat of violence from clients or to sexual harassment from fellow workers. Egyptian working females represent about 22% of the total labor force in Egypt. Seventeen percent of female working force is involved in agricultural activities. About 32% of females are sharing by more than half of their earning in house hold expenses. Some studies indicate a higher than average risk of unemployment among female workers which may also have negative social and health consequences on families. We recommend that women's legislative aspects for work should be strictly complied. Women's overtimes and night shifts should be limited very strictly. Certain type of jobs should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation. We should encourage research studies to ensure women's safety and ameliorate workplace health