Occupational Health, Safety and Ergonomic Concerns in Small Scale Spices Grinding Mills

Abstract

Occupational health safety and ergonomic (OHS&E) concerns are most significant in many developing countries because the effect of poor health, employee safety, and non-ergonomic conditions exist in different workplaces in the unorganised/informal sector and are an impediment to the growth of national economy and social progress. The present work involves OHS&E study of grinding mills in the small scale sector. These units are characterized by deficiencies in workplace and/or work station design, poor work environments, excessive noise, improper working conditions, lack of safety and personnel protective gear, musculoskeletal disorder concerns, working in awkward/unnatural postures, etc. The grinding mills located in North Karnataka were selected for the study. These units manufacture chilly, turmeric, and other spices and supply to the hotel industry as well work as vendors to other manufacturers. The study is carried at 3 mills located around Kalaburagi and about 32 workers were involved. The study findings indicate MSD concerns among workers, issues related to air pollution, and allergies due to fine dust particles and lack of safety equipment, and improper workplace design. Postural analysis indicated a majority of postures under high risk category and need ergonomic interventions. Several recommendations and suggestions are given to these units for overall improvement of safety, health, and productivity. Low cost ergonomic interventions were demonstrated to improve the postures, and changes in work station design are recommended. Use of PPEs is also encouraged.