China’s practises of basic occupational health service pilot activity

Introduction
China has faced social conflicts during the globalization, industrialization and urbanization. A challenge is that only about 10% workers have access to OHS. To improve OHS capacity, China launched a three-year BOHS pilot project, for provision and modification of OHS and to meet the occupational health needs of workers, especially the vulnerable groups.

Method
The BOHS pilot project was organized jointly by the MOH, State Administration of Work Safety Supervision (SAWSS), Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (MOHRSS), and All-China Federation of Trade Unions. The project focused on strengthening OHS capacity and coverage in 19 counties of 10 provinces.

Results
88 new occupational disease prevention and control institutions were established in Counties and OHS staff was increased. OH Divisions (or groups) were established in Townships and community service centers received part time OHS staff. In 3 years a total of 6,211 occupational health professionals were trained and 32,351 enterprise managers received training in occupational health knowledge. 214,363 occupational disease prevention and control training materials and 224 pilot work materials were published. For awareness rising, 214,636 publicity materials were distributed.
Occupational Health Profiles were drawn up by each Pilot County. The base-line survey on occupational health was carried out in pilot areas. Out of 29,952 enterprises 12,367 (41.29%) showed toxic or harmful risks. Out of 3,123,185 employees, 341,329 (10.93%) were exposed to toxic or harmful agents. 65.52% of 671,279 workers exposed to occupational hazards were surveyed for health and 503 workers were diagnosed with occupational diseases.

Discussion
The BOHS pilot practices have given suggestive evidence on feasibility of the BOHS in developing countries. The multidisciplinary joint actions were found most valuable.
BOHS pilot areas have been expanded to 65 counties in 28 provinces. More practice guidelines and training are still needed. Research on OHS needs also strengthening.