Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2010, published 100th ILC session (2011)

Occupational Cancer Convention, 1974 (No. 139) - Egypt (Ratification: 1982)

The Committee notes the Government’s response on the application of Article 5 of the Convention in regard to the obligation on employers under section 219(C) of Labour Code No. 12 of 2003 to carry out periodical medical examinations of all the workers in their workplace and that, in accordance with table No. 1 of the Social Insurance Act No. 79 of 1975, the frequency of such medical examinations is governed by the type of exposure to which a worker is subjected. The Committee would be grateful if the Government could provide further information on the kind of examinations provided. 

Article 2(2) of the Convention. Reduction of limits of exposure. The Committee notes that the Government’s report is silent on this matter. The Committee therefore reiterates its request for the Government to provide information in its next report on the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that the number of workers exposed to carcinogenic substances or agents are reduced to the minimum level compatible with safety.

Article 4. Provision of information to workers. With reference to its previous comments the Committee notes the Government’s response indicating that occupational safety and health inspectors monitor the application of the provisions of the Code including section 217(B) of Labour Code No. 12 of 2003. Accordingly, the inspectors verify that training of workers is done on a sound basis for the performance of their occupation, and informs them of the risks of the occupation, and the need to use the specified means of protection. Noting this information, the Committee requests the Government to provide further information on whether compliance with this provision rests solely on the labour inspectors or whether measures have been taken to ensure that employers are also required to provide workers, who are likely to be exposed to carcinogenic substances or agents, with all available information on the dangers involved and on the measures to be taken. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on measures taken or envisaged to ensure that the workers are provided with all available information on the dangers involved and on the measures to be taken.

Part IV of the report form. Application of the Convention in practice. With reference to its previous comments the Committee requests the Government to provide any up-to-date information, if possible, on the practical application of the provisions of the Convention, including extracts from inspection reports, statistical data, information concerning the number of workers covered by the legislation or other measures which give effect to the Convention, the number and nature of the contraventions reported, and the number, nature and causes of cases of disease.