Abstract
The World Health Organization’s (WHO) workplace health and safety guidelines on COVID-19 are unacceptably complacent in parts, patently dangerous in others, and contain serious gaps. Omissions include no mention of the essential role of labor inspection and enforcement, and a lack of recognition of potential interactions with other workplace hazards. WHO also omitted discussion of the necessity for wider employment protections to make safety and safe behavior a realistic prospect. Potential risks in outdoor work and the need to address the impact of job segregation related to inequalities in health outcomes are also absent. WHO’s advice influences national practice, official guidance, and binding rules.The International Trade Union Confederation has assessed the flaws in WHO’s arguments and has prepared a critique so they are understood and can be challenged.
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