An Integrated Assessment of Occupational Disease Prevalence Among Coal Mine Workers in India

Coal mining is a high-risk occupation characterised by continuous exposure to hazardous conditions such as coal dust, silica particles, toxic gases, excessive noise, and physically demanding work environments. These exposures significantly contribute to a wide spectrum of occupational diseases among mine workers. This study presents an integrated assessment of occupational disease prevalence among coal mine workers in selected Indian coalfields, including Pakri Barwadih and Kerandari (Jharkhand), Dulanga (Odisha), and Talaipalli (Chhattisgarh). A cross-sectional analytical approach was adopted using both primary data (medical examinations, surveys) and secondary data (mine health records). The study identifies respiratory diseases as the most prevalent occupational health issue, followed by hearing loss, hypertension, musculoskeletal disorders, and skin diseases. Results indicate that respiratory disease prevalence ranges from 32% to 38% across mines, highlighting the critical impact of prolonged dust exposure. The findings emphasise that occupational health risks in coal mining are multi-dimensional and require an integrated management approach. The study recommends enhanced dust control, real-time monitoring, improved personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, and comprehensive health surveillance systems. This research contributes to policy development and sustainable occupational health management in the mining sector.