Problems of Women Workers in the Brick Industry: An Empirical Study of Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh

The brick industry is one of the most labour-intensive and informally organised sectors in India, providing seasonal employment to millions of workers. Women constitute a substantial proportion of this workforce and are engaged in almost every stage of brick production. Despite their significant contribution, women workers continue to face low wages, insecure employment, hazardous working conditions, and limited access to welfare and social protection. This study examines the work patterns, wage structures, welfare facilities, occupational health risks, and empowerment levels of women workers in the brick industry of Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh. Using a cross-sectional descriptive research design, data were collected from 250 women workers through structured interviews and field observation. Statistical tools such as descriptive statistics, t-tests, chi-square tests, correlation, and regression analysis were employed. The findings reveal pronounced gender-based task segregation, significant wage disparities, inadequate welfare provisions, and widespread health problems. The study argues that improving women’s working conditions is not only a matter of social justice but also essential for sustainable industrial productivity. Policy-oriented recommendations are offered to promote decent work, gender equity, and social security in the brick industry.