Health Conditions of Women Working in Brick Kilns in South Punjab: A Phenomenological Study

Author(s) : Ayesha Khan, Farhan Navid Yousaf

Abstract:

Focusing on the lived experiences of women working in brick kilns in South Punjab, this study highlights their health conditions. For this study, three districts i.e., Rajanpur, Dera Ghazi Khan and Muzaffargarh were selected. By using purposive sampling and Edmund Husserl’s transcendental phenomenology, twenty-five (25) interviews with brick kiln women workers were conducted. Data were analyzed through Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Findings of the study revealed that generally, women working in brick kilns are facing health issues such as breathing problems, cough, respiratory problems, kidney issues, tuberculosis, skin allergies, hepatitis, piles, muscles and joint pain due to specific postures, heart problems due to dust and heat exposures, drinking of contaminating water along with soil deterioration in the environment of brick kilns. Although all the persons working in brick kilns are exposed to health risks due to hazardous working environment, women and newborns are particularly vulnerable. Pregnant women, mothers, newborns require nutritious diet for better immunity to fight diseases, but for many, managing even simple meal for two times a day is a daunting task.