Situation of Occupational and Environmental Health Among Garment Workers: An Analysis of Community Enterprise
Keywords:
garment workers, workplace hazards, work-related illnesses and injuriesAbstract
Abstract
Objective: To analyze the situation of occupational and environmental health among
garment workers working at community enterprises
Design: Descriptive study
Methodology: The study sample was 330 garment workers at community enterprises
in Sankampaeng District, Chiang Mai province. Interview forms were used to collect
data on (1) occupational health hazards; (2) health conditions related to risks; and
(3) working behaviour. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results: Three most signifcant workplace hazards were identifed. These included
ergonomic hazard which were awkward, repetitive postures, and prolonged sitting
(87.6-97.0%); chemical hazard which was fabric dust (96.4%); and psychosocial
hazards including inconsistent incomes and rush working (80.0-83.0%). Unsafe
working conditions were linked to working with sharp tools (97.0%) or electricity-powered
machines (96.1%). The most common work-related illnesses were musculoskeletal
disorders (90.0%), and work-induced stress caused by inconsistent incomes and rush
working (55.2%). Work-related injuries during the past three month were 18.2% which
were non-fatal injuries. The injury causation was related to sharp tools (81.3%).
Concerning working behaviour, more than half of the samples adopted personal
protective equipment, whilst nearly two-thirds checked their appliances’ conditions
before use.
Recommendations: In order to improve garment workers’ quality of working
life, it is suggested that occupational health team place high importance on health protection,
effectively communicate work-related risks to workers, develop management strategies
for musculoskeletal disorders and work-induced stress, and continuously promote safe
working behavior.
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