Working Environment and Occupational Health Issues of Handloom Weavers

Description

Page: 160-164

Kangjam Victoria Devi (College of Community Science, Central Agricultural University, Tura, West Garo Hills, Meghalaya)

This study was conducted in the state of Manipur to assess the details of the working environment of the handloom weavers with respect to the size of the area used, quality of space used with respect to lighting, ventilation, temperature, humidity, seasonal difficulties and different occupational related health issues. Interview cum observation methods were adopted for the collection of data. The study evidence that the cent percent of the weavers work in the part of their houses/house premises. None of them have separate weaving sheds specially designed for their activity. Weaving areas were small and cramped; generally lack in adequate lighting, cooling, and heating systems were missing. The materials of the area were mostly mud or cement floor with mud walls and GI sheet roofing. The majority of the work-shed was extremely affected by inclement weather conditions and seasonal changes. The author observed that the problems faced by the workers are the consequences of the inability to adapt and access scientific approaches to working place arrangement and lack of knowledge of ergonomics of the tools and machines used. The investigation tends to find the generalized health issues with long-term working in looms and the need for knowledge of ideal workplace arrangement and ergonomics of tools and machines used for the loom workers.