P-529 Study of the Health Profile of Shift Workers in the Production Department of a Fertiliser Industry in India

Objectives The study investigated whether the general and rotating shift workers of the production department of a Fertiliser industry are associated with shift-related health problems/symptoms. Methodology This is a Descriptive Cross-sectional study conducted in a Fertiliser industry in Gujarat, India. The study was conducted using a questionnaire, interview and last annual medical check up reports, capturing information about socio-demographic, physical, social, and psychological health problems. A total of 115 out of 128 employees working in the Production department of the industry responded, 39 general shift employees and 76 rotating shift employees. Results The results of this study indicated that rotating shift working may be associated with Gastrointestinal diseases (55%), Sleep-related problems (55%), Psychological problems (70%), Lifestyle diseases (32%), and General health symptoms (30%) This study also showed that shift working could be a risk factor for health-related problems as compared to general shift workers. Prevalence of sleep disorders was reported to be much higher (64%) in shift employees than in general shift employees (36%). Prevalence of cases of other diseases including hypertension was also higher in rotating shift employees compared to general shift employees. Discussion and Conclusion It appears that rotating shifts are a risk factor for employees’ health perceptions and working in rotation shifts carries a considerable degree of strain on the physiological function of the body. The industry management needs to address the perceptions and health-related problems of employees. It is recommended to discontinue work in fixed shifts and introduce forward rotating shift system after creating appropriate awareness among stakeholders.