Health Campaign: Ensuring Medical Support for Workers in High-Risk Shipbreaking Activities

In the shipbreaking industry, certain tasks—such as asbestos removal and ship dismantling—are among the most hazardous. Asbestos is a fibrous material that, when inhaled, can become permanently lodged in the lungs. Prolonged exposure can lead to life-threatening diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. In addition to these serious conditions, workers often suffer from skin diseases, allergies, and respiratory issues due to continuous exposure to toxic substances and harsh environmental conditions.

Given the dangerous nature of their work, shipbreaking workers—especially those engaged in high-risk tasks—require regular health checkups and access to quality medical care. To address this urgent need, YPSA provides free healthcare services as part of its ongoing efforts under the Green Ship Recycling Project.

The health campaign is designed to:

• Raise health awareness among workers
• Provide free medical consultations and treatment for occupational and general health issues
• Encourage early detection of chronic illnesses caused by workplace exposure
• Promote a culture of preventive healthcare in the shipbreaking community

These health services are delivered through weekly mobile health camps, which are organized in various worker colonies and neighborhoods adjacent to the yards. Workers can consult with doctors about their health concerns and receive necessary medications at no cost.

To date, YPSA has served over 10,000 shipbreaking worker and workers family through this initiative. Commonly diagnosed conditions include allergies, skin infections, and respiratory problems, particularly among workers with long-term exposure to hazardous substances in the yards.

By offering accessible, free-of-cost healthcare, YPSA aims to ensure that shipbreaking workers can maintain their health and continue working safely and sustainably. These health camps are not a one-time service, but part of a regular, ongoing process to support the physical wellbeing of those who power the ship recycling industry.