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Precarious Essential Work, Immigrant Dairy Farmworkers, and Occupational Health Experiences in Vermont
Bindu Panikkar1, Mary-Kate Barrett2
1Bindu Panikkar, Environmental Studies Program and the Rubenstein School of the Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, 81 Carrigan Dr., Burlington, VT 05405, USA.
Migrant dairy workers in Vermont experience significant occupational hazards due to inadequate training and protective gear. Addressing these risks is crucial for their health and safety.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Health
- Agricultural Medicine
Background:
- Migrant dairy workers in Vermont are exposed to numerous occupational and health risks.
- Existing research lacks comprehensive data on their specific environmental exposures and health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the environmental risks, occupational health hazards, and health outcomes of migrant dairy farmworkers in Vermont.
- To characterize the occupational health experiences of this vulnerable population.
Main Methods:
- Triangulation of data sources, including surveys and interviews with migrant dairy farmworkers (since 2015).
- Analysis of data collected by Migrant Justice.
- Inclusion of key informant interviews with community organizations across Vermont.
Main Results:
- Migrant dairy farmworkers received insufficient health and safety training and lacked adequate protective gear.
- Over 75% reported harm from chemical/biological risks; nearly 50% experienced headaches, itchy eyes, or cough.
- A quarter reported breathing difficulties, and 75% were injured by animal-related risks.
Conclusions:
- Exposures and health concerns among migrant dairy farmworkers are preventable.
- Improved social representation, advocacy for better work protections, training, healthcare access, and social welfare are essential.
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