An Epidemiological Study Of Occupational Health And Safety Practices Amongst Barbers in a slum area of Mumbai

Dr Chaitali Borgaonkar; Dr Mridula Solanki; Dr Praveen Davuluri

Volume : VI, Issue : VII, July - 2017

An Epidemiological Study Of Occupational Health And Safety Practices Amongst Barbers in a slum area of Mumbai

Dr Chaitali Borgaonkar, Dr Mridula Solanki, Dr Praveen Davuluri

Abstract :

Abstract

Introduction: Occupational health and safety among barbers need attention due to their impacts to the general public. Workers in this sector are exposed to variety of occupational health hazards and suffer from health problems. This business needs to meet and maintain high safety, health and hygiene standards.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of occupational health hazards and safety practices among barbers.

Materials and methods: A work place based cross-sectional study was conducted with 130 barbers. Data was collected by face to face interview using a semi-structured questionnaire. Analysis of data was done using descriptive statistics.

Results & Conclusion: Barbers have long working hours. 63.8% barbers suffered from musculoskeletal problems. 45.4% suffered from work related ailments. 45.4% did not use protective devices while working. The sanitation and sterilization of equipment used in workplace were not satisfactory. There is potential threat of infection transmission to the customers from barbers and vice-a-versa.