Work related ocular injuries in small scale industries

Abstract

Background: The risks of ocular trauma are reported to have increased among small scale industrial workers in
developing countries.
Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the magnitude and causes of ocular injuries as well as the use
of personal protective devices in small scale industries in Woliso town, central, Ethiopia.
Methods and subjects: This cross sectional study design was carried out over one month, August 22-September
16, 2011 in Woliso town. Technical workers of forty one small scale industries were traced and participated in
the study. Data collection and ocular examination were performed by the principal investigator on site.
Results: Of the total 233 technical workers in 41 small scale industries, 224 participants were included in the
study making a response rate of 96.1%. Seventy seven (34.4%) of them had history of ocular injuries. Majority of
ocular injuries, 32/77 (41.6%), occurred among metal workers. The main causative agents were iron chips in 24
(31.2%) cases. Most study participants, 128 (57.1%), did not use personal protective devices at all. Regardless of
its appropriateness, only 13 (16.9%) cases with ocular trauma used some kind of protective devices at the time
of injury.
Conclusion: Work-related eye injuries are found to be common (34.4%) among small scale industry workers.
More than half of the workers do not use personal protective equipments. These necessitate the need for health
education focused on appropriate health and safety training for workers and employers. Provision of appropriate
personal protective devices and strict supervision of workplace is strongly recommended.