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Correlates of Work-Related Disability Among Injured Garment Workers in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Investigation
Md Golam Kibria1, Mohammad Delwer Hossain Hawlader2, Mohammad Hayatun Nabi2
1Department of Research Centre for Development Action Dhaka Bangladesh.
Background And Aims:
The ready-made garment (RMG) industry in Bangladesh is crucial for its economy, employing millions of workers. Despite its economic significance, this industry is characterised by unsafe working conditions, resulting in a substantial burden of work-related injuries. Many injured workers return to their jobs, often experiencing long-term or permanent disabilities. This study aimed to identify the correlates of work-related disability among injured garment workers in Bangladesh.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 730 garment workers who had returned to work (RTW) following workplace injuries. Respondents were recruited from 120 conveniently selected RMG factories in Bangladesh. Work-related disability was assessed using the Washington Group Short Set on Functioning (WG-SS) questions. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify the factors associated with work-related disability.
Results:
The prevalence of work-related disability among injured workers was 13%, with the majority (58.9%) experiencing mobility disability. Male workers (adjusted odds ratio, aOR: 2.0; 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.24 to 3.18), those aged < 30 years (aOR: 2.9; 95% CI: 1.06 to 8.18), and workers from the cutting section (aOR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.42 to 3.32) had higher odds of work-related disability. Injury-related factors associated with a higher likelihood of work-related disability included bone fractures (aOR: 3.7; 95% CI: 1.81 to 7.53), burn injuries (aOR: 2.4; 95% CI: 1.38 to 4.18), same-level slips or trips (aOR: 3.8; 95% CI: 2.99 to 4.72), and fire accidents (aOR: 8.2; 95% CI: 1.44 to 46.11).
Conclusions:
This study identified sociodemographic, occupational, and injury-specific correlates of work-related disability among injured RMG workers in Bangladesh. These findings highlight the need for interventions to prevent work-related disability and support injured workers. They also provide evidence to inform occupational health policies and future research.