In 1997, O'Rourke wrote that 86 percent of the factory workers reported nose and throat illnesses. Last year, that number was down to 18 percent. O'Rourke is quick to point out that there is more work to be done at Tae Kwang Vina. There is still far too much exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals. Noise and temperature levels continue to exceed reasonable standards.
Protective equipment is scarce, and worker-safety training is inadequate.
Nike is clearly thrilled by O'Rourke's findings. It has also invited O'Rourke to make similar inspections at Nike's 36 other footwear factories, most of which are in Vietnam, China or Indonesia. The value of unflattering attention to push a company to improve conditions for its workers. At one time, Oregonians were proud of the Nike story.