Afghan garment factories pose health risks for women workers

IRIN reported on Wednesday that workers in Herat garment factories are exposed to microbes from fur and wool that harm the respiratory system and cause chest infections.

In the past year, seven Afghan women workers employed at wool and fur factories in Herat have died due to respiratory diseases and chest infections, according to Mohammad Ibrahim Ghafori, an official at the Safi factory.

Although Afghan labor law dictates that employers should provide medical insurance to those who work in hazardous conditions, the law is not adequately enforced.

Due to their low wages, workers are also unable to afford medical treatment. However, they continue to work out of dire economic need.

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