Occupational Hazards And Workers’ Health Status

Abstract

Occupational health and safety remain critical concerns within chemical industry, where workers are routinely exposed to a range of hazardous conditions, including chemical agents, elevated temperatures, excessive noise, and radiation. This study examines the impact of occupational hazards on the health status of workers employed in the chemical industry in Gabes, Tunisia. Drawing on data collected from a survey conducted between September 2019 and January 2020 involving 498 workers across three chemical manufacturing facilities, the research assesses the prevalence of occupational illnesses and identifies key determinants influencing workers' health outcomes. Findings indicate a high incidence of health-related issues among workers, notably respiratory diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, and hearing loss—conditions closely associated with prolonged exposure to unsafe working environments. Multivariate analysis reveals significant correlations between health status and various sociodemographic and occupational factors, including age, educational attainment, years of service, history of workplace accidents, and perceived risk levels. These results highlight the pressing need for comprehensive occupational health and safety interventions, encompassing regulatory enforcement, hazard control measures, and worker education, to reduce health risks and enhance well-being in the chemical sector.