Occupational Health Problems among Bakery Workers in 10th of Ramadan City in 2018.

Abstract

Background : Bakeries can be a very hazardous work site. Occupational health problems at the bakeries may vary from physical, chemical, biological, and psychological health problems. Heat, light, noise, and radiation are the physical health problems that might be encountered at the bakery. Objective: This study was carried out to evaluate the occupational health problems among bakery workers and to evaluate the safety measures at the bakery sites. Method : A cross-sectional study was conducted on bakeries on the 10th of Ramadan City. A total of 100 bakery workers were randomly selected and interviewed individually, at their work. We assessed the self-recorded health problems of the workers during the last 6 months and occupational health problems among them. In addition, occupational health hazards and precautionary measures taken were assessed. Results : Different occupational hazards had disclosed as the following (from the highest to the lowest exposure) among bakery workers: 80.0% for moving stuff while 60.0% had poor positioning during work, followed by 58.0% who were facing excessive heat, then 50.0 % who encountered a hazardous degree of noise. Most bakery sites have very poor ergonomic rules and ventilation. Most bakery workers are exposed to many physical and ergonomic health hazards. Common cold, Headache, and muscle spasms are the most recorded health problems among bakery workers. Conclusion and Recommendations : Most bakery workers are exposed to many physical and ergonomic health hazards. Common cold, Headache, and muscle spasms are the most recorded health problems among bakery workers. We suggest further studies to evaluate the degree of the physical and ergonomic hazards at the bakery sites. Besides, bakery workers should be encouraged to be trained on occupational health and safety; how to prevent health problems, accidents and use safety measures, first aids, and PPEs at the bakery sites.