Work-related risk factors faced by female workers engaged in flower cultivation

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to find out the various work-related risk factors faced by female workers engaged in flower cultivation and to recommend future directions as these factors have a direct impact on the health of female farm workers. It was found that female farm workers suffer from various occupational risk factors i.e. environmental, ergonomic, musculoskeletal and safety factors at workplace. Exhaustion due to extreme temperature was the main environmental risk factor reported by 80.8 percent respondents. Whereas, awkward posture and repetitive muscle activity were the main ergonomic risk factors reported by 65 percent respondents. Under musculoskeletal disorders, low back pain was the main problem reported by 70.8 percent of respondents. Considering safety factors perceived by respondents at workplace, lack of protective clothing was the main problem reported by 89.2 percent respondent. At the end, remedial measures were suggested so that the occupational risk factors faced by female farm workers can be reduced.