FACULTY STUDENT INDUSTRY CONNECT REPORT

ON
WORKPLACE HEALTH CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDATIONS
FOR LABORATORY STAFF AT SAHDEO HOSPITAL

Submitted to

SHARDA UNIVERSITY, GREATER NOIDA

Masters of Physiotherapy

BATCH (2023-2025)

By

Dheeraj Kumar Rai (2023484739)

Law Kumar (2023336503)

MPT Orthopedics

Department of Physiotherapy

Sharda School of Allied Health Sciences

Sharda University

Greater Noida (U.P)

Under the Guidance of

Dr. Kriti Sachan

Assistant Professor

Department of Physiotherapy

Sharda School of Allied Health Sciences

Sharda University, Greater Noida, UP

 SCHOOL OF ALLIED HEALTH SCIENCES

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the work incorporated in this project entitled “WORKPLACE HEALTH
CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR LABORATORY STAFF AT SAHDEO
HOSPITAL” submitted by Mr. Dheeraj Kumar Rai, System ID : 2023484739 and Mr. Law
Kumar, System ID : 2023336503, to the Sharda School of Allied Health Sciences for partial
fulfilment of the requirement for the program of Master of Physiotherapy, embodies original
research work carried out by the student. This has not been submitted anywhere else in part or
full.

Signature of Guide/Supervisor

Signature of Head/Program Coordinator

Signature of Dean , SSAHS

 INTRODUCTION

Hospital laboratories play a vital role in diagnosing and treating patients by providing accurate
and timely test results. Lab technicians are essential to the smooth functioning of these labs,
performing tasks such as handling biological samples, operating specialized equipment, and
conducting various diagnostic tests.(Segalo et al. 2023)

Significant relations between hospital work, especially in laboratories, and increased risks of
respiratory symptoms has been observed in the literature.(Heibati et al. 2022)

It has been proven that some personal and ergonomic factors associated with CTS among the
laboratory technicians, including female gender, arm/hand exertion, pipetting, repetitive tasks,
working with a biosafety cabinet, and an unadjusted workstation.(El-Helay et al. 2017)

However, the nature of their work exposes them to numerous health risks, both physical and
chemical. These risks are often underappreciated, despite their potential to affect the overall
well-being of lab technicians and their ability to perform at optimal levels. This study aims to
explore the health challenges faced by hospital lab technicians and propose strategies for
mitigating these risks.(Manlik et al. 2019)

Health and safety in healthcare labs are of paramount importance, not only for the well-being
of the technicians but also for the overall efficiency of the healthcare facility. Poor health or
injuries among lab technicians can lead to increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and
even compromised patient care due to errors. (Arora et al. 2015)

Maintaining a safe working environment is critical for ensuring the smooth functioning of
diagnostic processes and promoting a healthier, more efficient workforce. Implementing
appropriate health and safety protocols not only benefits the technicians but also the hospital
at large by preventing accidents and promoting a culture of health.( Klein LW)

This study examines the health risks faced by hospital lab technicians in clinical laboratory
settings. It focuses on their exposure to physical, chemical, and ergonomic hazards while
performing diagnostic tests, handling biological and chemical samples, and operating lab
equipment. Excluding other healthcare workers, the report identifies common risks specific to
lab technicians and proposes tailored, evidence-based solutions to enhance their health and
workplace safety, aiming to raise awareness and promote practical interventions.
 OBJECTIVES

The main objectives of this report are as follows:

• To identify and examine the key health issues that hospital lab technicians face in their
daily work.
• To explore the potential impact of these health issues on their well-being and
productivity.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations and solutions that can help mitigate these
risks.
• To raise awareness about the importance of health and safety measures for lab
technicians in hospital laboratories.
 PROCEDURE
The study will employ a mixed-method approach to gather data. This will include conducting
interviews with hospital lab technicians to understand their firsthand experiences with work-
related health issues, as well as reviewing existing literature and safety protocols in healthcare
labs. Study will be conducted at Sahdeo Hospital, Greater Noida.

Visit 1: Problem Assessment/Identification

Preparation for the Visit :

Before the visit, the following steps were undertaken:

Literature Review: A review of existing research on common health problems faced by lab
technicians was conducted to understand the typical risks in healthcare lab environments.

Permission and Consent: Necessary permissions were obtained from the hospital
administration, and informed consent was acquired from the participants. The purpose of the
study was explained, and confidentiality was ensured.

Data Collection :

During the first visit, data was gathered using the following methods:

Interviews: Structured interviews were conducted with the lab technicians. Questions focused
on physical health concerns (e.g., musculoskeletal strain, back pain), chemical exposure,
ergonomic challenges, and safety risks. Both closed and open-ended questions were used to
gather detailed insights.

Observations: The working conditions and daily tasks of the technicians were observed to
identify any unsafe practices, poor ergonomics, or environmental hazards that could contribute
to health issues.

Documentation: All health issues identified were recorded, both those reported by the
technicians and those observed directly. A detailed record was compiled for each problem.
Problem Identification :

Based on the data collected, a comprehensive list of health problems faced by lab technicians
was created. The issues were categorized (e.g., musculoskeletal, chemical exposure, ergonomic
issues), and a detailed record of each problem was compiled.

Visit 2: Suggesting Solutions

Follow-up Preparation

Before the second visit, the following steps were taken:

Review of Identified Issues: The list of health problems documented during the first visit was
reviewed to ensure all issues were covered and the information was up-to-date.

Developing Suggested Solutions: Based on the issues identified, a set of practical suggestions
was developed. These solutions were derived from best practices and evidence-based
recommendations to help mitigate the risks for lab technicians.

Presentation of Suggested Solutions

During the second visit, the following actions were taken:

Provided Solutions: A list of recommendations for each identified health issue was presented.
The suggestions aimed at improving safety, reducing the risk of injury, and promoting overall
health. These included:

Ergonomic changes (e.g., adjustable chairs, proper workstation setup)

Safety protocols (e.g., proper PPE, chemical handling guidelines)

Preventive measures (e.g., stretching exercises, regular breaks)

Environmental improvements (e.g., proper ventilation, noise reduction)

Discussed Feasibility: While presenting the solutions, it was emphasized that these suggestions
were for consideration, and the hospital management could decide whether to implement them
based on feasibility, resources, and policies.
Documentation of Suggested Solutions

The solutions provided during the second visit were documented, including any additional
feedback or modifications suggested by the technicians or hospital management. The
suggestions were recorded in a clear, actionable format for review and potential
implementation at a later stage by the hospital.
 OBSERVATIONS
During the study, multiple work-related health issues were observed among hospital lab
technicians. These problems were identified through interviews and direct observation of their
tasks and work environment. The following key issues were documented:

1. Chemical Exposure and Inhalation Risks

Lab technicians routinely handled chemicals such as reagents, solvents, and stains. While
proper storage protocols were in place, occasional spills and inconsistent use of fume hoods
were noted. Ventilation in certain areas was inadequate, exposing technicians to fumes that
could cause respiratory irritation, dizziness, or long-term health risks. Prolonged exposure to
these chemicals, especially during busy hours, heightened the risk.

2. Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) from Pipetting and Sample Handling

Technicians performed repetitive tasks, such as pipetting and handling samples, for extended
periods. This led to noticeable complaints of wrist, hand, and elbow discomfort. The lack of
ergonomic pipettes and insufficient breaks between repetitive tasks were significant
contributing factors.

3. Risk of Infection from Biological Samples

The handling of blood, tissues, and other biological samples exposed technicians to potential
pathogens. Although basic biosafety measures were followed, lapses such as improper use of
gloves, accidental spills, and incomplete adherence to sample disposal protocols were
observed. These lapses increased the risk of exposure to infectious agents.

4. Eye Strain and Fatigue from Microscopy

Prolonged use of microscopes for diagnostic purposes caused complaints of eye strain and
headaches among technicians. The absence of ergonomic seating and improperly adjusted
microscopes further exacerbated this issue. Limited lighting adjustments in the microscopy
area also contributed to visual discomfort.

5. Physical Fatigue from Prolonged Standing

Technicians spent significant time standing, particularly during sample preparation and
analysis. This led to complaints of leg and lower back pain, especially during long shifts. Hard
flooring without anti-fatigue mats and insufficient seating options for short breaks aggravated
the problem.

6. Noise Exposure from Equipment

Diagnostic and laboratory equipment, such as centrifuges, analyzers, and autoclaves, generated
a constant level of background noise. While not as loud as industrial machinery, the cumulative
exposure can lead to hearing fatigue over time. Prolonged exposure to this noise caused
irritability, reduced focus, and occasional headaches among the staff.
 SUMMARY OF IDENTIFIED PROBLEMS AND PROPOSED
SOLUTIONS

SERIAL
PROBLEM UNIQUE AND EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS
NO.
1. Chemical • Use local exhaust ventilation systems near chemical
Exposure and handling stations.
Inhalation Risks • Provide training on safe chemical mixing techniques
and spill response drills.
• Replace traditional cleaning agents with eco-friendly,
low-fume alternatives where possible.
2. Repetitive Strain • Introduce periodic 5-minute stretch breaks after every
Injuries (RSI) hour of repetitive work.
• Implement ergonomically designed pipetting tools
with adjustable features.
• Rotate tasks between technicians to reduce repetitive
strain on specific muscle groups.
3. Risk of Infection • Adopt automated sample processing equipment to
from Biological minimize direct contact.
Samples • Provide disposable, splash-resistant lab coats and
aprons.
• Ensure all staff are vaccinated against common lab-
related infections, such as Hepatitis B.
4. Eye Strain and • Promote the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at
Fatigue from something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Microscopy • Use microscopes with adjustable eyepieces to
accommodate different users.
• Install indirect, diffused lighting to reduce glare and
eye fatigue.
5. Physical Fatigue • Provide anti-fatigue insoles or supportive shoes for all
from Prolonged technicians.
Standing • Install sit-stand workstations to allow technicians to
alternate between standing and sitting.
• Schedule frequent short breaks to encourage
stretching and movement.
6. Noise Exposure • Use acoustic barriers or sound-dampening panels
from Equipment around noisy equipment.
• Relocate loud machines to isolated areas or
soundproof rooms.
• Schedule routine auditory health screenings for staff
working near noisy machinery.
 CONCLUSION
The study highlighted significant work-related health challenges faced by hospital laboratory
technicians, including chemical exposure, repetitive strain injuries, risk of infection, eye strain,
physical fatigue, and noise exposure. These issues stem from the demanding nature of their
tasks and the work environment. By implementing the suggested solutions, ranging from
improved ergonomics and safety protocols to task rotation and innovative practices, hospitals
can enhance the well-being and productivity of their staff. Addressing these problems is crucial
not only for ensuring employee health and satisfaction but also for maintaining high standards
of patient care and laboratory efficiency.