Occupational Health Hazards among Ceramic Workers in a Selected Ceramic Factory in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Occupational health is crucial for ensuring the well-being of workers, and the ceramics industry poses different occupational health hazards due to its unique processes. This study focuses on understanding the occupational health hazards among the ceramic worker in selected ceramics factory in Bangladesh. Aim: To know the occupational health hazards among the ceramic worker in selected ceramics factory in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted from May 2023 to February 2024, involving 197 participants selected through purposive sampling from different section of Shinepukur ceramic industry ltd, Gazipur, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Both male and female workers who work in ceramic factory are included. Data were collected through face-to-face survey, using a self-developed structured questionnaire Occupational Health Hazards Questionnaire. Results: The study revealed occupational health hazards among ceramic workers. Most participants were female, 73.6% and male, 26.4% and mean age of 31.54 years. Ergonomic hazards were the most reported (62.4%), followed by physical (22.8%), chemical (11.2%), biological (6.1%), and psychological (4.1%) hazards. Health problems were reported: respiratory issues 3.0%, physical health problems 24.9%, and musculoskeletal problems 24.4%. The total percentage exceeds 100.0%, suggesting potential overlap in responses or multiple facilities present in some cases. 78.6 % report have knowledge about health hazards. Awareness and Safety Practices with 59.9% used PPE, 48.2% of respondents using facemasks and 19.3% using gloves. Conclusion: The workers reported they are exposed to various risks including ergonomic, physical, biological, chemical, and psychological hazards, with ergonomic Abstract hazards being the most reported. Compared to other research, the prevalence of health problems among these workers is lower. To improve the situation, there is a need for stricter safety measures, comprehensive training, and increased awareness about health hazards. Keywords: Occupational Health, Ceramics Industry, Hazards, Safety Practices, Awareness, Musculoskeletal Disorders