Silicosis Fighter Dies After Years of Struggles

Deng Wenping, a migrant worker who contracted silicosis while working at a Hong Kong-invested jewellery factory in southern China due to the poor workplace environment, finally died of his illness on 5 January, after years of struggles for his life and just compensation.

Deng Wenping's tragic case highlights the severe human cost, in terms of basic health and safety, being paid daily by countless migrant workers for the sake of China's breakneck economic development.

Deng was only 36 years old when he died. He was diagnosed of silicosis, an incurable occupational disease in 2000, just after three years on the job as a stone cutter and polisher. Generally speaking, the average incubation period for this type of pneumoconiosis was seven to eight years. Deng’s diagnosis suggested that the workplace conditions of the factory were particularly ghastly.

After four-year legal fight, Deng received a total of 230,000 yuan in July 2005 in compensation from his former employer, Perfect Gem & Pearl Manufacturing Company, in an out-of-court settlement mediated by the Huizhou Intermediate People's Court and Boluo County Court. Deng had earlier received 90,000 yuan in compensation from the company in 2001. Though finally receiving the compensation, Deng’s family was close to bankrupt due to the high medical cost and the prolonged legal battle with the employer.

Deng is survived by his wife and two young children. They are now living with Deng's older sister. The children, a nine-year-old son and 15-year-old daughter, will be able to continue their studies thanks to financial support from Zigen Fund in Hong Kong.