Eye Injuries among the Tannery Workers of Kanpur City, India

Abstract

Occupational health hazards among the workers in the tannery industries are well known. However, a study on eye problems/injury among tannery workers is scanty. They  are exposed to hazardous chemicals which is directly associated with their health. This study examined the prevalence of eye problems/injuries and their determinants among them. A total of 284 tannery and 289 non-tannery workers were interviewed during January-June 2015 from Kanpur using a three-stage sampling design. Bivariate and logistic regression analysis have been applied for data analysis. Results show that the prevalence of eye problems was higher among tannery workers than non-tannery workers. More than one-fifth (22.5%) of the tannery workers suffered from cloudy and blurry vision. The risk to them was significantly higher among those with eleven or more years of work experience (OR=3.32; p<0.05). They had exposure to dry finishing work (OR=2.65; p<0.1). Tannery workers' exposure to a moderate or high level of chemicals in the air (OR=2.08; p<0.1) resulting in eye injuries is higher than their counterparts elsewhere. In conclusion, they  should be trained and self-motivated to use preventive measures to reduce chemical and dust exposure such as wearing protective glasses. Their ocular health must be monitored periodically for adequate and timely treatment. In this regard, health education and safety training are essential to prevent eye injuries.