The global economy is increasingly characterized by long and elaborate supply chains, with a shift of manufacturing to less-developed countries. Protecting workers' health and safety at all points in these chains is a complex enterprise that must take into account cultural differences, educational levels, technological sophistication, and local government policies and priorities. As the first of two roundtables in the series on Corporate Responsibility in Global Supply Chains, this panel will explore
health and safety/industrial hygiene issues arising from these shifts. Drawing from their experience and research, panelists will discuss and analyze issues such as multiple supplier layers, market demands, the inadequacy of national regulations and enforcement, "gaming" of monitoring systems by contractors, and economic pressures on factory owners and workers to cut corners or tolerate unsafe conditions. More than a review of media scandal reports, this panel will characterize the key problems so that participants will come away with a clear idea of the nature, scope, and scale of the obstacles and challenges associated with global supply chains.
• Ask the Expert Q&A with Edward L. Quevedo, JD, Farcella Braun & Mariel, San Francisco, CA.
• Issues and Challenges in Minimizing Supply Chain Risks. D. Stangis, Campbell Soup Co., Camden, NJ.
• Genuine Worker Participation Essential for Effective OHS Programs. G. Brown, Maquiladora Health & Safety Support Network, Berkeley, CA.
• Supply Chain Occupational Health and Safety in China. J.E. Camp, University of Washington, Seattle, WA.
• EHS Ramifications of Global Supply Chains During Times of Increasing Cost, Compliance, and Competitive Pressures. J.R. Mulhausen, 3M, St. Paul, MN.