Abstract
Background:
Home-based workers in Thailand, such as those engaged in longan peeling, wooden furniture production, and craft paper lantern making, face multiple occupational health hazards. However, evidence on the associations between specific hazards and health outcomes in this vulnerable group remains limited.
Methods:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 575 home-based workers. Data were collected through the “Healthy i-Work” web application and analyzed using logistic regression. Occupational hazards and self-reported health outcomes were systematically assessed.
Findings:
The most frequently reported hazards included awkward postures (59.7%), unstable income (52.9%), use of sharp tools or machinery (51.3%), and dust exposure (45.9%). Musculoskeletal disorders were the most common adverse health outcome (69.6%), followed by fatigue, numbness, eye strain, and stress. Logistic regression analysis showed significant associations between ergonomic hazards and musculoskeletal pain; psychosocial hazards and stress-related symptoms; dust and chemical exposure and respiratory or skin symptoms; noise exposure and hearing impairment; heat exposure and heat-related symptoms; and insect or animal bites and infection-related symptoms.
Conclusions:
Home-based workers are exposed to diverse occupational hazards that significantly impact their physical and psychological health. These results highlight the urgent need for occupational health interventions and preventive strategies tailored to informal work settings.
Application to Practice:
The findings emphasize the importance of developing practical workplace safety measures, providing ergonomic and protective equipment, and strengthening inclusive social protection policies. Occupational health professionals and policymakers should prioritize interventions that reduce risks, promote worker well-being, and safeguard the health of informal home-based workers.
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