Prevalence of physical health problems and its related factors among the workers of soap industry

The soap industry is a vital sector that employs a large workforce, often exposed to various occupational hazards. Workers frequently encounter chemicals, dust, and repetitive physical tasks that can lead to significant health issues. Understanding the prevalence of physical health problems among soap industry workers and identifying the contributing factors is crucial for improving workplace safety and worker well-being. By categorizing related factors into worker-related, industry-related, and job environment-related aspects, this study aims to provide a comprehensive insight into the occupational health challenges faced by soap industry workers. The aim of the study was to investigate and analyze the prevalence of physical health problems among the soap industry workers in Kozhikode district. This research aims to identify and understand the extent of health problems faced by these workers due to their occupational environment and activities. Objectives of the study were to estimate the prevalence of physical health problems of workers of soap industry, to identify the related factors of physical health problems among workers of soap industry, to find the association between physical health problems and its related factors, and to find association between physical health problems and selected socio-personal variables. The study’s theoretical framework was based on Betty Neuman system model. 130 soap industry workers were selected by purposive sampling technique. Tool used were, semi structured Interview schedule to assess socio-personal variables, bio-physical data sheet to identify physical health problems, and checklist to assess related factors of physical health problems of soap industry workers. Study reveal that among 130 participants, 10.7% of participants had history of hypertension,10.1% of participants had diabetes and 6.9% of them had disc prolapse. 61.5% of participants were don’t have the availability of PPE, 99.2% of them were not using PPE and 99.2% of participants did not undergo any training regarding the usage and maintenance of the PPE. 100% of participants had to bend repeatedly and sit for long time during working hours. 99.2% of participants had to stand for long time during working hours, 99.2% of participants did not underwent any training regarding first aid and 98.5% of participants had no access to first aid kit. 61.5% of participants had no cleaning facility after food and 66.4% of participants did not have access to clean drinking water facility. Significant association was found between the central nervous system problems, ocular problem and socio-personal variable like age of workers. Significant association was found between the ear problems and selected socio-personal variables such as training of soap making and years of work experience. Significant association was found between respiratory problems and socio personal variables like years of working experience, Significant association was found between central nervous-system problems and job environment related factors. Significant association was found between ocular problems and job environment related factors.