AN EXPLORATORY STUDY ON WORK AND SAFETY OF MIGRANT LABOURERS WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO KARUR DISTRICT, TAMIL NADU

This research explores the socio-economic characteristics, workplace conditions, and occupational safety of migrant labourers, emphasizing their employment patterns, earnings, access to safety provisions, and healthcare facilities.The results indicate that the majority of migrant workers are male, married, and possess only basic education, with a considerable share employed in agriculture and earning between 5,000 and 10,000 per month.Although a limited number have received substantial workplace safety awareness and training, the availability of protective equipment and health insurance remains insufficient.Many labourers endure extended working hours, reside in rented housing, and lack access to social security benefits, often working under unsafe conditions with low wages and inadequate living facilities.Statistical evaluation reveals no significant correlation between the type of industry and safety training received, employment type and workplace accidents, or educational level and wage satisfaction, with the latter showing only marginal significance.The study highlights the pressing need for focused policy actions, enhanced workplace safety measures, and strengthened social welfare programs to improve the quality of life for migrant labourers.