Lina Albandak
Introduction
Prosthetists and orthotists play a crucial role in healthcare by designing and fitting prosthetic limbs and orthopedic braces for individuals with disabilities. Despite their essential role, their profession remains largely overlooked in terms of occupational safety and labor rights in Jordan. These professionals often work in hazardous conditions, exposed to toxic chemicals, fine dust particles, and physical injuries. The lack of attention to their working conditions has left many vulnerable to workplace injuries without proper protection, insurance, or safety regulations.
The Policy Landscape of Occupational Safety in Jordan
Occupational safety is a fundamental human right, enshrined in international labor conventions such as those set by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). However, in Jordan, prosthetists and orthotists continue to operate in environments where basic safety measures are not enforced. Many workshops lack proper ventilation, exposing workers to hazardous fumes from materials like resins and adhesives. Additionally, heavy machinery, sharp tools, and repetitive physical tasks contribute to musculoskeletal disorders and workplace accidents.
Although Jordanian labor laws provide comprehensive safety regulations, enforcement remains weak, leaving workers in this field with little protection. The legal framework is well-structured and aligns with international labor standards, but inconsistent oversight and a lack of strict enforcement mechanisms have resulted in widespread non-compliance. Many professionals lack access to protective gear, training on hazard management, and health monitoring, exacerbating the risks they face.
Workplace Safety Gaps: Evidence from the Field
Recent interviews and survey data collected from prosthetists and orthotists across Jordan reveal alarming trends. One of the most significant issues is the lack of awareness among professionals regarding their legal rights concerning workplace safety and compensation. Many workers are unaware of the occupational safety measures they are entitled to, which prevents them from advocating for better conditions or seeking recourse when their rights are violated.
Additionally, injury and illness prevalence remains a major concern. A significant percentage of workers reported respiratory issues due to prolonged exposure to airborne particles and toxic substances. The use of materials such as resins, adhesives, and other chemical compounds without proper ventilation poses severe health risks. Musculoskeletal disorders caused by repetitive tasks, heavy lifting, and long working hours further add to the toll on workers’ well-being.
Another critical issue is the lack of workplace safety measures in prosthetic and orthotic workshops. Many workplaces do not adhere to proper ventilation standards, leaving workers exposed to hazardous fumes. Protective gear, such as respirators, gloves, and eye protection, is often absent or inconsistently used. Additionally, emergency response protocols, such as first aid kits and fire safety measures, are either inadequate or completely lacking.
Finally, regulatory gaps and weak enforcement mechanisms exacerbate these issues. While Jordanian labor laws contain safety provisions, implementation is inconsistent. Government bodies responsible for oversight often lack the resources or initiative to enforce compliance. As a result, many workshops continue to operate without meeting the necessary safety standards, putting workers at unnecessary risk.
Barriers to Effective Implementation of Safety Standards
One of the major barriers to occupational safety improvements for prosthetists and orthotists in Jordan is the lack of advocacy and representation. Workers in this field do not have strong representation in labor unions or professional organizations, making it difficult to voice their concerns or push for legislative and policy changes. Without a dedicated body advocating for their rights, their safety issues remain largely unaddressed.
Another critical challenge is weak enforcement of existing safety regulations. While Jordanian labor laws contain provisions for workplace safety, government agencies responsible for their enforcement often fail to conduct regular inspections or impose penalties on non-compliant employers. This lack of oversight results in many workshops continuing to operate without adequate safety measures, placing workers at risk.
Financial constraints also play a significant role in preventing the implementation of safer working environments. Many prosthetics and orthotics workshops operate with limited budgets, making it difficult to invest in protective gear, ventilation systems, or regular health monitoring programs. Smaller workshops, in particular, struggle to allocate funds for necessary safety measures, leading to substandard conditions.
Lastly, the absence of formal occupational health and safety training exacerbates workplace hazards. Many prosthetists and orthotists lack education on best practices for reducing risks associated with their work. Without structured training programs, workers may unknowingly expose themselves to preventable dangers, further increasing the likelihood of workplace injuries and long-term health issues.
Strengthening Occupational Safety: Policy and Practical Solutions
To address these critical issues, several key measures should be taken:
- Stronger Safety Regulations and Enforcement: Regulatory bodies must conduct regular inspections and impose stricter penalties on workplaces that fail to meet safety standards.
- Worker Awareness Programs: Education initiatives should be launched to inform professionals of their rights and best practices for workplace safety.
- Investment in Protective Equipment: Employers must provide proper protective gear, including respirators, gloves, and eye protection, to reduce health risks.
- Workplace Safety Training: Workshops and training programs should be introduced to ensure that all prosthetists and orthotists understand and implement best safety practices.
- Support for Health Monitoring: Regular health assessments should be conducted for workers exposed to hazardous materials to detect and address potential health issues early.
Conclusion
Occupational safety is a fundamental right that should not be overlooked. Prosthetists and orthotists in Jordan deserve proper recognition, protection, and safe working environments. Without urgent reforms, workers will continue to face unnecessary risks that could have long-term consequences on their health and well-being. Stakeholders—including government agencies, professional associations, and labor rights organizations—must collaborate to ensure that these essential healthcare professionals receive the safety standards and labor rights they rightfully deserve. The time to act is now—Jordan must enforce existing laws and prioritize the .well-being of those who dedicate their careers to helping others