On the next Your Call, we'll mark the 100th anniversary of one of the most tragic labor disasters in American history--the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City. The deaths of 146 garment workers drastically changed labor laws and worker safety standards. It also electrified the labor movement. So how safe are our workplaces today? Join us at 10 or send an email to feedback@yourcallradio.org. How does worker safety in the US compare to regulations in factories overseas? It's Your Call with Rose Aguilar, and you.
Guests:
Charles Kernaghen, director of the Institute for Global Labour and Human Rights (formerly known as the National Labor Committee)
Eileen Nevitt, granddaughter of one of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory workers
Dr. Larry Rose, former doctor with Cal OSHA
Click to Listen: What's the state of worker safety?
Yesterday, March 24th, 3 workers were killed and a fourth is in critical condition after being struck by a freight train near Kelso-Longview, Washington. The rail carriers push "behavior based safety" programs that focus on worker behavior as opposed to hazard elimination, therby blaming workers for injuries and accidents. Yesterday's tragic loss of life did not have to happen. Had the carrier spent a few dollars for whistle posts, a flashing warning light and/or bell at this crossing (in other words, had they eliminated the hazard) these workers would no doubt be alive today.
ReplyDeleteRon Kaminkow
Railroad Workers United
General Secretary
608-358-5771