Introduction: Workers in tanneries are frequently exposed to dangerous work environments, such as chemical agents, physical irritants, and biological contaminants, all of which can seriously harm their eyes. Even though the leather industry is very important worldwide, little is known about the ocular morbidity that occurs among tannery workers. Chronic exposure to dust, UV rays, sulfur compounds, and chromium salts can cause a variety of eye disorders that impair visual health and productivity at work.
Aim and Objectives: To determine occupational risk factors and the prevalence of ocular hazards among tannery workers, as well as to suggest preventive measures to lessen ocular morbidity. To find out how common ocular symptoms and eye disorders are among tannery workers.to determine the primary physical, chemical, and biological occupational risk factors that contribute to ocular hazards.to suggest policy changes and preventative actions based on evidence.
Methodology: 300 tannery employees from different departments (chemical handling, leather processing, and finishing) were chosen by stratified random sampling as part of a cross-sectional analytical design. Semi-structured interviews with safety officers and medical professionals, clinical ophthalmic exams, and structured questionnaires were used to gather data. Using SPSS, descriptive frequencies and chi-square tests were part of the statistical analysis.
Results: At least one ocular symptom was reported the 300 participants. The most prevalent conditions were eye irritation and redness (20% each), followed by dry eyes, eye pain, and blurred vision (10% each). Conjunctivitis, cataract, and corneal abrasion accounted for 20% of the diagnosed ocular conditions, while 10% had bacterial infections and 30% had no clinical symptoms. 90% of employees reported chemical exposure, 100% reported physical risks, and 40% reported biological hazards. The highest prevalence of symptoms (100%) was found in the finishing department, followed by chemical handling (75%).
Conclusion: This study demonstrates that tannery workers face a high burden of avoidable eye risks, with notable correlations to exposure types and departmental roles. Inadequate safety training and inconsistent PPE use are contributing factors. To protect tannery workers' visual health, it is advised that policy-driven occupational safety regulations, regular screenings, enhanced ventilation, and required eye protection be put into place immediately.