I think a better example is mining, where miners received no safety equipment, and the mines were not built with safety foremost.

The idea was, if you didn't like it, leave. If you wanted safety equipment, buy it yourself. Or leave. Can't work due to black lung disease partially from poor ventilation the company was responsible for? You're fired; should have left years ago.

There are still people who believe the contract is all that counts, nothing else matters, and if you don't like it, leave.