¹Department of Optometry and Visual Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana

Corresponding Author: Emmanuel Boateng Baafi, Department of Optometry and Visual Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana,
Tel: +233547494802; E-Mail: [email protected]

Received Date: 11 Aug 2016  
Accepted Date: 07 Sep 2016   
Published Date: 09 Sep 2016

Copyright© 2016 Baafi EB

Citation:Baafi EB, Afari C, Kumah DB, Bempong BB, et al. (2016). Ocular Morbidity Among Sawmill Workers in the Ku- masi Metropolis. Mathews J Ophthalmol. 1(2): 006

ABSTRACT

This study sought to determine ocular morbidity and the risk associations in the activities of sawmill workers within the Kumasi Metropolis. A descriptive cross-sectional study was used to collect data on eye health and safety of 115 participants within the sawmill industry, with the aid of pretested questionnaire. Eye examination was conducted with a Welch-Allyn Finoff Transilluminator used together with an ophthalmic loupe, and an ophthalmoscope. Eight (8) of the 115 study participants recruited were females (7%) giving a female to male ratio of 1:13. Workers’ ages ranged between 18-70 years; mean age of 37.28±13.39 years. The workers were grouped as Administrative (7%) and Technical (93%). The prevalence of eye injuries was determined by proportion to be 42.6%, with prevalence of 0.9% and 41.7% (p > 0.05) respectively among administrative and technical staff. Protective eyewear was not used by 87 (75.7%) workers. Eyewear unavailability due to non-supply by employers was the commonest reason (70.14%) ascribed by workers for non-use of protective eyewear. There is compelling evidence of work-related ocular hazards and non-adherence to eye safety in the sawmill industry in the Kumasi Metropolis. This could be curtailed if adequate eye health and safety measures at work are properly enforced.

Ocular Morbidity; Sawmill; Work-Related Eye Injuries; Protective Eyewear.