Classification of occupational hazards in bag and shoe making industry in Shanghai

Objective The occupational hazards in bag and shoe making industry were investigated and classified,in order to provide orientation for control of these hazards. Methods A total of 44 shoe making companies and 30 luggage making companies in Shanghai were investigated. The technical process,the flowchart,the used raw materials were asked and audited. The related occupational hazards were surveyed and classified according to the national guideline on classification of occupational hazards at workplaces. Results The worksites,such as the brush coating and drying,the beating and mixing, were classified as the severe worksites with chemical hazards. The worksite trimming was classified as one with heavy hazards of noise,while the worksite plastic as one with severe hazards of noise. Conclusion The occupational hazards in bag and shoe making industry were severe,particularly at some worksites. The relevant administrative departments should supervise these industries to enforce them to improve working environment and ensure workers' health.