Answer:
The difference between ‘child labour’ and ‘child work’ is that child labour refers to work that is
harmful to children. It is work that is mentally or physically dangerous, work that interferes
with their ability to go to school which can affect their income-earning potential as adults. The
health and wellbeing of child labourers is at risk, and they can end up being trapped in a cycle
of poverty.
There are a number of ways that child labour can affect children, and these can vary
depending on which industry the child is working in. Generally, child labourers can suffer from
long-term health problems due to malnutrition, exposure to chemicals, abuse, injuries,
exhaustion, and psychological harm.
1
In agriculture, children may be exposed to toxic pesticides or fertilisers. They work with
dangerous blades and tools, and carry heavy loads.
In mining, children may use poisonous chemicals, face the risk of mine collapse, and
sometimes work with explosives.
In construction, children may carry heavy loads, work at heights without safety
equipment, and risk injury from dangerous machinery.
In manufacturing, children may use toxic solvents, perform repetitive tasks in painful
positions, and risk injury from sharp tools.
In domestic work, children risk abuse, work long hours, and often live in isolation from
their families and friends.
