Identification of work-related injuries among Dhokra handicraft artisans influencing sustainable growth of bell metal handicraft industry: An unorganized sector of Chhattisgarh, India

Handicraft is the backbone of rural economy of countries of South Asia and Southeast Asia. Bell metal handicraft known as “Dhokra craft,” is an important metal handicraft practiced in India. Commercialization of this craft industry has increased working hours but the business model is still cottage-based. Manual manufacturing for commercial needs has increased incidence of hand injuries among the artisans affecting sustainable growth. The objective of this research is to find the cause of work-related hand injuries of the artisans of bell metal handicraft industry to provide direction for future research. Occupational risk on hands were identified using Modified Dutch Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Severity of hand symptoms were assessed by Modified Boston Hand Evaluation Questionnaire. Direct observation and task analysis was further used to understand the risk involved in the job. Use of hand tools and power tools play significant role in the development of hand injuries among the artisans. Hand problems such as amputation, burning marks, loss of sensitivity, and tingling sensation were highly observed among artisans, those with experience >31 years. Experienced artisans undergo more occupational hand injuries, causing absenteeism, job turnover, and job loss. This ultimately affects the sustainable growth of the Dhokra trade community.