Unions fight cancer

Eleven global trade union organisations representing 300 million members are organising a "zero cancer" campaign after new figures revealed that over 600,000 workers worldwide die from occupational cancers every year - that's more than one death per minute.

The initiative is backed in the UK by the GMB and Amicus unions, as well as the Hazards campaign.

"Occupational cancer is the most common work-related cause of death, but it is not being taken seriously enough by the Health and Safety Executive or employers," commented Amicus health and safety officer Bud Hudspith.

Occupational cancer: a union guide to prevention is available at www.imfmetal.org/main/files/07031915130979/ZeroCancer-Update.pdf