This edition traces a follow-up health camp that helps workers address nutrition gaps and stay healthy. It also looks at how gender-sensitive health and safety guidelines are being implemented to create safer workplaces. At the same time, 24/7 production schedules and enforced overtime are pushing some workers to their limits, affecting their well-being, rest, and personal lives.
A Glance Into The Lives Of Workers With Bite-Sized Stories From Factories, Homes & Communities.
Health First: Nurturing a Stronger Workforce
A follow-up health camp was held for 92 workers to track progress after last year’s initiative. Doctors reviewed blood reports and recommended supplements to address deficiencies. Workers received calcium, vitamins B12 and D, and malt-based supplements, which are expected to last six weeks. The session also highlighted the importance of regular check-ups and continued care. With a focus on preventive health, the initiative from Multi Actor Partnership (Health) under BMZ, Germany, aims to build a healthier and more resilient workforce.
Safety in Action: Building Safer, Inclusive Workspaces
A garment factory in Karur partnered with Cividep’s Multi Actor Partnership (Health) team to implement Gender-Sensitive OSH (Occupational Safety and Health) Guidelines. After an initial meeting, both management and workers joined a hands-on workshop to discuss practical steps for safer work conditions. Together, they identified key areas for improvement. This joint effort marks a meaningful step toward a safer and more inclusive workplace.
Nonstop Strain: When Work Leaves Little Room for Life
Some factories in Tamil Nadu, including electronics suppliers, have shifted to 24/7 operations to meet tight deadlines. Workers now follow rotating weekly breaks instead of a common day off. One factory shared advance schedules, but others did not, causing confusion. The relentless pace is impacting workers’ rest, family time, and morale, raising serious concerns about long-term well-being.
Equipped to Act: Knowledge for Empowerment
Workers gained valuable insights this quarter through study circles and outreach meetings. Over 130 leather factory workers attended 23 sessions covering workplace rights, safety, and UMANG, an app that provides access to various central and state government services. In parallel, 137 home-based women workers joined 21 village meetings to learn about health insurance and welfare schemes. These sessions are helping leather workers stay informed and better access support systems.
(Updates from Kaveri M.T., Gokhularaj R., Kohila Senbagam)
