Health Sciences 2045A/B Lecture Notes - Free-Trade Zone, Maquiladora, Family Values

• School: Western University
• Department: Health Sciences
• Course: Health Sciences 2045A/B
• Professor: Deborah Fitzsimmons

Document Summary

Export processing zone: e set up special incentives at an industrial zone to attract foreign investors. Maquiladora industry: the rapid establishment of these on the mexican side of border increased population growth along the border migration from rural interior and gave little attention to public health issues. The incentive for big companies to come over was cheap labour, health policies, lower import/export regulations, environmental and safety regulations are overlooked. They do not even provide workers with benefits. Poor work environments are at a constant concern: inadequate lighting, ventilation, excessive noise, exposure to toxic substances, workers discouraged from starting or joining a union. Physical abuses: ex: extremely low pay, low health and safety standards, physical discipline (not allowed to use the washroom) Effects of factories on living conditions: ex: pollution, toxic waste (containing levels that exceed safety standards) Loss of social and family cohesion/shift in family values (migration, women must take double role of nurturer and breadwinner)