Sweatshops healthcare goods accepted version.pdf (133.45 kB)
Instruments of health and harm: how the procurement of healthcare goods contributes to global health inequality
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-07, 07:50 authored by Mei TruebaMei Trueba, Mahmood F Bhutta, Arianne ShahvisiArianne ShahvisiMany healthcare goods, such as surgical instruments, textiles and gloves, are manufactured in unregulated factories and sweatshops where, amongst other labour rights violations, workers are subject to considerable occupational health risks. In this paper we undertake an ethical analysis of the supply of sweatshop-produced surgical goods to healthcare providers, with a specific focus on the National Health Service of the United Kingdom. We contend that while labour abuses and occupational health deficiencies are morally unacceptable in the production of any commodity, an additional wrong is incurred when the health of certain populations is secured in ways that endanger the health and well-being of people working and living elsewhere. While some measures have been taken to better regulate the supply chain to healthcare providers in the UK, further action is needed to ensure that surgical goods are sourced from suppliers who protect the labour and occupational health rights of their workers.
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Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Accepted version
Journal
Journal of Medical EthicsISSN
0306-6800Publisher
BMJ Publishing GroupExternal DOI
Department affiliated with
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2020-08-28First Open Access (FOA) Date
2020-09-01First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2020-08-27Usage metrics
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