The Economics of Shipbreaking
Shipbreaking Workers
How tens of thousands of migrant workers dismantle ships, the high risks of fires, falls and toxic exposure, and efforts to improve safety.
Shipbreaking is dangerous work.
Workers
Many are migrants from Odisha, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
Risks
- Explosions and fires from gas and oil.
- Falls and falling steel.
- Asbestos and toxic fumes.
Deaths
Accidents kill and injure workers at yards in South Asia each year.
Safety efforts
- Training centres at Alang.
- Protective equipment.
- Better housing and medical care.
Contract labour
Many work through contractors without job security.
The cutter
A gas cutter slices through steel plates in heat and fumes, earning a daily wage.
Thinking shipbreaking is safe industrial work
It has high accident risks.
Key takeaways
- Many workers are migrants.
- Fires, falls and toxins are risks.
- Accidents cause deaths.
- Training and equipment help.
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