Abstract

Millions of people are injured and killed each year while they are working. Many of these injuries and deaths are due to inadequate training or education in occupational safety and health (OSH). As technology becomes more sophisticated, associated hazards become more complex. Educating and training workers, employers, and even governments on hazards and the effective means to control and minimize them is becoming increasingly challenging. As hazardous industries move to and grow in economically developing countries (EDCs), the need for training and education is ever more urgent. Although developed countries have existing education and training systems, improving international harmonization and inter-coordination might lead to consistent curricula to be used globally. Some international training organizations have arisen to provide educational materials and courses in developing nations. Growth of these programs, and the possible use of online courses, may be a way to provide sufficient numbers of educated and qualified OSH workers, managers, and professionals moving into the future.