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International Labour Office Geneva

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Photo (front cover): FAO, Rome

Copyright © International Labour Organisation 1979

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ISBN 92-2-101974-8
First published 1979

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Printed by Egyetemi Nyomda, Budapest (Hungary)

The International Programme for the Improvement of Working Conditions and Environment (PIACT) was launched by the International Labour Organisation in 1976 at the request of the International Labour Conference and after extensive consultations with member States. PIACT is designed to promote or support action by member States to set and attain definite objectives aiming at "making work more human" The Programme is thus concerned with improving the quality of working life in all its aspects: for example, the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases, a wider application of the principles of ergonomics, the improvement of the content and organisation of work and of conditions of work in general, a greater concern for the human element in the transfer of technology. To achieve these aims, PIACT makes use of and co-ordinates the traditional means of ILO action, including:

- the preparation and revision of international labour standards;

- tripartite meetings between representatives of governments, employers and workers, including industrial committees to study the problems facing major industries, regional meetings and meetings of experts;

- action-oriented studies and research;

- clearing-house activities, especially through the International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS); and

- operational activities, including the despatch of multidisciplinary teams to assist member States on request.

This publication is the outcome of a PIACT project.