COVID-19 presents a new and emerging work-related health risk. This discussion paper explores the disproportionate risks facing migrant workers, already among most vulnerable in Europe’s workforce.
It looks at jobs associated with a particularly high risk of exposure to COVID-19 and also with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), another highly prevalent work-related risk.
The findings show that migrant workers are over-represented in jobs with a high risk of exposure to COVID-19 also in combination with and/or to MSD-related risks, confirming that COVID-19 has exacerbated existing inequalities among migrant workers.
The paper recommends a range of measures to ensure that migrant workers’ health and well-being are protected, including targeted information campaigns, access to health care and employment support measures.
