A systematic review of work-related health problems of factory workers in the textile and fashion industry

• Published in: Journal of Occupational Health 2024, Vol.66(1), pp.uiae007
• Main Authors: Seidu, Raphael Kanyire, Ofori, Emmanuel Abankwah, Eghan, Benjamin, Fobiri, George Kwame, Afriyie, Alex Osei, Acquaye, Richard
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: health problems; Humans; Musculoskeletal Diseases - epidemiology; Musculoskeletal Diseases - etiology; musculoskeletal disorders; Occupational Diseases - epidemiology; Occupational Diseases - etiology; Occupational Exposure - adverse effects; Occupational Health; Occupational Stress; Personal Protective Equipment; Posture; psychological stressors; respiratory problems; Review; textile and fashion industry; textile and fashion workers; Textile Industry; Workload - psychology; Workplace - psychology
• ISSN: 1341-9145; 1348-9585; 1348-9585
• DOI: 10.1093/joccuh/uiae007

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to present a systematic review of the health-related problems of factory workers in the textile and fashion industry. These workers endure long sitting postures, poor workspace conditions, and long working hours to complete their overload of tasks. This situation results in several health problems that affect the productivity, mental health, and well-being of the workers.Methods: The relevant data (21 article publications) were obtained from the Scopus database. Analysis of the 21 articles was grouped under 3 research themes based on the critical reading of the content and abstracts: respiratory problems, musculoskeletal disorders, and psychological stressors and other health issues.Results: The findings show that factory workers are exposed to dust particles of cotton and other raw materials, fumes, and chemicals from manufacturing processes. This prolonged exposure without the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) leads to respiratory diseases like byssinosis that affect the workers’ health. Additionally, working in a particular posture due to the workstation design for prolonged hours causes musculoskeletal disorders or pains. Workers also suffer from anxiety, depression, and stress from workload and pressure, hence making them unstable with reduced productivity.Conclusions: The findings of the study reinforce the need for a safe workspace and spacious work environment, provision of PPE, training in occupational hazards, frequent health checks, and ergonomic assessment of workstations to reduce prolonged work postures. Stakeholders, employers, policymakers, and governments should collaborate to safeguard and protect the well-being and health of the workers at these factories.