Prevalence of respiratory symptoms among female workers in the fish processing industry in Odisha

Abstract

Introduction: In recent years, there has been a significant expansion in the fish processing industry. The current study was made to evaluate the pulmonary and respiratory issues that the female workers of the fish processing industry faced. Methods: A total of 60 female workers out of which 40 were in pre-processing unit and 20 were in post processing unit of fish processing work were selected randomly for the study held in a fish processing factory of Patia, Odisha, India. The study was carried out for nine months from January 2023 to September 2023 A descriptive study design was used for the present study and it involved the assessment of physical parameters, application of a questionnaire based on respiratory and pulmonary issues, spirometry for monitoring lung function and Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). The study also included an assessment of worksite by OSHA – recommended ergonomics checklist. Results: The fish processing workers were found to complain about respiratory symptoms. 40% of the post-processing workers whereas 36% of the preprocessing workers experienced chest cold. More than 50% of the workers experienced headaches. The study also indicated reduced lung volumes predominantly Forced Vital Capacity (p<0.05) among workers indicating pulmonary problems, due to prolonged exposure to the low ambient temperature, cold air loaded allergens, and direct contact with chlorinated cold water. Conclusion: The fish processing workers were found to complain about respiratory discomfort in the workplace. Respiratory disorders, both acute and chronic, can arise from prolonged exposure to the cold fish processing environment.