Substantial foreign investment by steelmakers in industrialized countries has generally focused on modernization while in developing countries, particularly in Asia and Latin America, investments have largely been directed towards increasing capacity close to fast-growing markets. In terms of working practices, these transformations have resulted in something akin to a cultural revolution. The rigid occupational structures of the past are being cast aside in favour of greater functional flexibility. Computerization has made certain skills redundant. Promotions based on seniority have given way to job structures based strictly on competence.
Technical advances are short-lived and new procedures are developed at an increasing rate.
Another issue of vital concern is environmental management. The steel industry is second only to the cement industry in the weight and volume of material processed. Worldwide, the 750 million tonnes of steel currently produced each year generate some 30 million tonnes of solid waste. Steel itself is routinely recycled. Next week's tripartite meeting, part of the sectoral activities programme of the ILO, will help to give orientation to future ILO activities in this field.