Occupational Hazards among Dental Surgeons

Abstract

Background: This study was conducted to assess and increase the level of awareness of occupational hazards among the dental surgeons of Indian Navy.

Methods: The data was obtained using a self-administrated questionnaire from 17 serving dental surgeons that included questions on personal data, awareness of occupational hazards, safety measures practiced and experience of occupational hazard while in practice.

Results: All the respondents were aware of the occupational hazards at workplace and had been vaccinated against Hepatitis B infection. 82.3% had regular exposure to dental amalgam. Backache was the commonest hazard in 70.59% members of the study.

Conclusion: This study shows that although there appears to be a high level of awareness of exposure to occupational hazards among the dental surgeons of the Indian Navy, the practical steps to prevent them needs to be reinforced. Increased awareness must be created about the dangers of chronic mercury poisoning, its prevention, the importance of regular monitoring of blood mercury levels and the mercury vapour levels in the clinic.

Keywords: Dental surgeons; Mercury poisoning; Occupational hazards.

Fig 1

Number of years of dental practice

Fig 2

Prevention of cross infection methods routinely employed

Fig 3

Occupational Hazards experienced by Dental Staff

Fig 4

Safety measures adopted while handling amalgam