Psychosocial Workplace Factors and Health Problems among Indian Migrants in Gulf Cooperation Council Countries

Abstract

Background: There are not extensive studies about psychosocial occurrence of work related health problems in the Indian migrants in GCC countries. The present study was intended to determine the work related psychosocial health problems and its consequences among the workers. Methodology: This was cross sectional study and conducted in Warangal district, India. It involves male migrants of low and semi-skilled from six countries of the GCC. The questionnaire adopted from previous literature and consists of elements related to characteristics of demographic, psychosocial workplace factors including health related. The questionnaire was interviewed and was adopted in English. Data was analyzed using SPSS statistics. Results: In total 410 migrants were included and 70.5% of them are married. Greater number of the respondent’s migrants were construction laborers (25.4%). Reported high prevalence of physical strain (58%), lengthy standing (97.8%), lengthy sitting (65.6%), lifting and carrying (65%). Interestingly reported, 70% of them work in the same physical position for a lengthy period of time. Half of the migrant workers required a lot of thinking at their work and reported (75%) their work is too difficult. The study found 81% of migrants having good prospects with their employer. However, 72% reported their private life is suffering due to irregular working hours such as shifts or overtime and 66% do not have fixed working hours. Mechanical vibrations (68%) and raising voice (44%) affect their health. Almost all migrants suffering from dry and damp air including dust and accidents which are the highest factor at the workplace reported. Diseases reported are diabetes, cardiovascular, hypertension and metabolic arthritis suffering among workers. Conclusions: The study emphasizes implementing various strategies or policies related to the workplace intended to improve work environment characteristics including psychosocial work factors to avoid work related health problems.