Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Occupational injuries pose a critical challenge amid India's rapid industrialization. National Programme on Occupational Diseases Quadrant I reports alarming global statistics, with India contributing significantly to the burden. Injuries impose a significant financial burden on individual households, leading to substantial out-of-pocket expenditures (OOPE) causing severe financial distress for the families of the victims. This study explores the profile and economic ramifications of such injuries, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention. METHODS: This cross-sectional mixed methods study, conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Bangalore, Karnataka, analyses data from 148 occupational injury cases over 6 months. Ethical approval was obtained, and data were collected from hospital records and direct patient inquiries. Demographics, injury characteristics, root causes, and outcomes were analyzed. The economic burden, catastrophic health expenditure, awareness, and utilization of social security schemes (SSS) were assessed. RESULTS: A predominant demographic vulnerability exists among workers under 25 years old, especially in high-risk sectors. Traumatic injuries, primarily due to employee negligence, are prevalent, with extremity injuries and ocular injuries being common. While 68.9% of participants claimed access to personal protective equipment (PPE) at their work sites, only 51.4% reported actual usage of PPE. A significant financial strain was observed, with 64 out of 148 participants experiencing catastrophic health expenditure. Insurance coverage and SSS utilization are limited, indicating gaps in awareness and procedural complexities. DISCUSSION: The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, particularly in high-risk sectors and during vulnerable periods, such as postlunch hours. Bridging the gap between PPE availability and utilization is crucial. The study emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts between regulatory bodies, employers, and workers to enhance safety measures. Furthermore, it highlights the challenges and successes in SSS utilization, suggesting the need for streamlined processes and increased awareness campaigns. Recommendations include targeted interventions, safety training, and streamlined SSS processes to address the complexities surrounding workplace incidents and improve overall occupational well-being. Continued research is crucial to refining preventive strategies and mitigating the impact of occupational injuries. CONCLUSION: This study reveals the urgent need for improved safety measures and streamlined social security schemes to mitigate the significant economic burden of occupational injuries in India.