The Occupational Characteristics and Health Status of Workers in Geographically Isolated and Confined Areas in the Republic of Korea

BACKGROUND This study investigates the safety and health status of geographically isolated and confined workers. METHODS This study was conducted in Baekryeong Island in Korea in 2020. The age-standardized prevalence ratios (aSPR) for occupational injury, unmet medical needs, psychological status, and lifestyle were estimated from the available data. Also, we compared the aSPRs of workers in Baekryeong Island with a reference study population who participated in a nationally representative survey in Korea. RESULTS The study revealed that Baekryeong Island workers had an increased risk of acquiring health and safety problems compared to the general worker population. The island workers showed a significant increase in unmet medical care (aSPR, 5.319; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.984-6.958) and occupational injury (aSPR, 8.371; 95% CI, 3.820-15.892). CONCLUSION This study identified the safety and health problems of geographically isolated workers in Baekryeong Island. The risk of occupational injury and unmet medical care are simultaneously highlighted in the region's population, thereby underscoring the importance of prevention.