workers at Hema Chemical Industries in Vadodara Gujarat are still on strike against the negligent approach of the management towards implementing health and safety norms. S K Varma, surgeon at the Factory Inspector Office, Vadodara, had recently confirmed that about 43 workers at the company are suffering from nasal septum perforation and dermatitis (a type of skin problem). This was found during a medical examination carried out by him. A systematic medical examination of all the workers is yet to be done.
However, the state labour ministry has declared the strike as illegal and asked the strikers to resume work. The company manufactures potassium and sodium bichromate, chromium sulfate, and other chromium based chemicals. Chromium is a metal used widely in alloy and metal plating. Bichromate is hexavalent chromium, which is a known carcinogen. It causes chronic rhinitis, phayrngitis and nasal septum perforation, apart from lung cancer.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.