Worker’s material and mental life in sustainable development of industrial zones

Abstract

Since the implementation of the market economy, innovation and international integration, with the correct guidelines and policies of the Communist Party and the State, Vietnam has rapidly developed industrial parks, attracting a large number of foreign and domestic enterprises came to operate in industrial zones. Having a large number of employees, enterprises operating in industrial zones must pay attention to working conditions and other issues for workers. One of the most important issues of concern is the material and mental life of workers. A sufficient material life when ones’ needs for food, accommodation, clothes, etc. are satisfied allows workers to survive and regenerate their energy for work. A healthy mental life ensures brings positive mood, motivation, attitude and effective working behaviors. Inadequate material and mental life reduces workers’ productivity and thus influences firms’ growth. Ensuring material and mental life for workers in industrial zones is a prerequisite in boosting productivity and achieving sustainable development. This study use survey and interview data to examine the quality of material and mental life of workers in industrial zones in Vietnam. Low income was the main hindrance to a sufficient material life and a rich mental life of workers. In addition, low quality of meal and working conditions had significant impacts to their health. The results were discussed in relation to previous studies on the life of workers in industrial parks.