Occupational work-related health hazards among workers involved in weeding activity

Occupational health hazards in agriculture, particularly during weeding activities, pose significant risks to farmers’ wellbeing. Most of the work in the agriculture field are performed manually using traditional hand tools. These hand tools lack ergonomic design, causing excessive strain on workers and leading to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) throughout their bodies. The study aims to identify and analyze the occupational health hazards faced by workers involved in manual weeding activities in agriculture. Data showed that 94% of respondents experienced muscle fatigue and pain, 88% reported reduced grip strength, and 79% had tingling sensations in fingers. The most frequent health issues included pain in fingers, shoulders, and wrists (mean score 2.22), muscle fatigue (2.16), and reduced grip strength (2.13). Perceived exertion during weeding was rated as moderately heavy by 44.5% of respondents. The highest joint discomfort was in the back (mean rating 4.08) and lower back (4.03). Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) were common, with the lower back, knee, and shoulder being most affected. Acute pain was prevalent in the lower back (75%), upper back (65%), and knee (60%). These findings highlight the need for better ergonomic tools and practices in agriculture.