Prevalence of ocular trauma and barriers to use of personal protective devices among welders in Hetauda, Nepal.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Welding poses significant ocular hazards in Nepal's industrial settings; however, data on trauma prevalence and protective barriers remain limited. This study assessed the burden of ocular trauma, personal protective equipment (PPE) practices, and associated risk factors among welders in Hetauda, Nepal.

Methods

This cross-sectional study conducted in 2024 included 111 welders in Hetauda. Participants underwent comprehensive eye examinations and structured interviews. Logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with ocular trauma.

Results

The prevalence of ocular trauma was 62.16%, primarily caused by metal chips (60.87%) and flames (37.84%). Although 78.39% of welders reported using PPE, 72.97% relied on non-certified sunglasses, and only 1.

SUBMITTER: Thakali S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12753074 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature