Although child labor is recognized as a global health problem, research on its health impact on children has been limited and sometimes inconsistent.
Short term, the most obvious economic impact of child labor at the family level is an increase in household income. Long term, the under-accumulation of human capital caused by low school attendance and poor health is a serious negative consequence of child labor, representing a missed opportunity to enhance the productivity and future earnings capacity of the next generation.
Short term, the most obvious economic impact of child labor at the family level is an increase in household income. Long term, the under-accumulation of human capital caused by low school attendance and poor health is a serious negative consequence of child labor, representing a missed opportunity to enhance the productivity and future earnings capacity of the next generation.
Most child laborers begin working at a very young age, are malnourished, and work long hours in hazardous occupations; frequently they do not attend school. They receive very low wages or are unpaid, and their income or help is usually essential for family survival. They are mainly employed in the informal sector, with agriculture accounting for more children workers than any other sector. It is estimated that, in developing countries, at least 90% of economically active children in rural areas are employed in agriculture.
In agriculture, studies have shown that more children suffer physical injuries, health issues and even deaths. Several factors can contribute to their hazardous working conditions:
- Lack of experience with machinery and sharp tools
- Exposure to chemicals such as pesticides
- Lack of sanitary facilities such as toilets
- Working at a very young age (5 to 7 years old)
Other hazardous work conditions and their health risks are:
- Heavy load bearing in construction industries
- Exposure to radiation in nuclear power plants
- Inhaling of solvents and glues in the leather industry
- Lead poisoning in the glassworks industry
- Mercury poisoning in the mining industry
- Deep diving without wet suits in the fishing industry