Morbidity among welders in the shipbuilding industry, Goa, India: A Cause for Concern

Introduction
Historically, welding has been associated with ocular, respiratory morbidity (OM, RM respectively) and noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Organized shipbuilding sector requires the implementation of stringent use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety workplace rules. In such a scenario, are welders still predisposed to develop morbidity by virtue of their occupation? 
To study the prevalence of ocular, respiratory morbidity and noise-induced hearing loss among welders vis à vis among nonwelders working in the same industry and its association with certain relevant factors.

Methods
A cross-sectional study of 276 welders and 276 nonwelders was conducted. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was followed by clinical examination; Titmus vision testing, spirometry and pure-tone audiometry.

Results
The prevalence of OM among the two study groups comparable in age and duration of employment (DOE), was found to be significantly higher among welders with odds ratio (OR) of 1.75 (95% confidence interval (CI):1.45 – 2.11)) despite regular PPE (personal protective equipment) use. 
The prevalence of RM among the two study groups comparable in age, duration of employment (DOE) and smoking habits, was found to be significantly higher among welders compared to nonwelders with odds ratio (OR) of 1.78 (95% confidence interval (CI):1.20 – 2.63)). 
Consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE) was protective against RM in welders (OR=0.33, 95% CI: 0.28– 0.37). 
NIHL was found in 17 (6%) shipbuilders while no office staff was detected to have this condition (Odds Ratio=37.29, 95% Confidence Interval (22.42 – 62.18)). 

Discussion
Welders have a greater burden of all three types of morbidities compared to nonwelders despite PPE being made available.