Cotton is a natural fiber used in the production of cloth. When cotton is being processed, it emits fine cotton dust particles into the air. These particles are breathed into the lungs by the person working with the fiber. Sometimes the person can have an allergic reaction which is similar to an asthma attack. This allergic reaction causes the small airways in the lungs to contract so air cannot quickly leave the lungs. Any air that is already in the lungs at the time of the attack has to force its way out of the body through narrowed lung passages which in turn produces wheezing sounds that are common during asthma attacks. Even if a person working with cotton does not display any allergic reactions, there is scientific evidence that people who are exposed to cotton dust may develop a permanent decrease in their breathing ability. This cotton dust related disease is known as Brown Lung or byssinosis, and affects thousands of people in the textile industry who are exposed to large quantity of dust.
In addition to lung problems caused by dust, textile workers who work with dyes or finishers can develop skin allergies or rashes known as dermatitis. Finishing agents such as formaldehyde used in permanent press materials can cause allergic reactions that affect the respiratory system. Also, textile workers who are regular smokers working with dusts or finishing agents are at a higher risk of developing lung and heart problems. The risk multiplies with the amount of exposure. The duty of the employer becomes even greater in making sure that workers are not exposed to large quantities of foreign substances such as cotton dust or chemicals.
The passing of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OSHA) of 1970, was the means by which industries were forced to adopt standards to ensure a safe and healthy environment for workers. OSHA guarantees employees the right to a safe and healthy working environment and OSHA inspectors can walk in and inspect workplaces at anytime. Workers who feel that their workplace is unsafe can file complaints with OSHA. If upon inspection, OSHA finds violations of industry standards, then the industry can be heavily fined. In addition, OSHA requires that industries keep records of work related accidents, illnesses, injuries, and exposures to harmful materials. This information must be made available to employees and government agencies and provided upon request. Lesson Plan 1
Objectives
-
a) Students will develop written questions for interviewing.
-
b) Students will interview relatives or former garment industry employees.
-
c) Students will present oral histories to class.
Oral histories are excellent sources of historical information. Many students are not aware that relatives can be primary sources of information. Students may have had relatives that worked in the local textile industries of New Haven in previous years and can give first hand accounts of their experiences. Through interviewing, students can gain access to this valuable information and share it with members in their class.
Activities
-
a) Explain oral histories.
-
b) Have students make a list of interviewing questions in class prior to interview. Have students practice by interviewing each other in class.
-
c) Have students gather oral histories through interviews.
-
d) Present oral history in front of class.
-
e) Submit written report for posting in class.
