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Discover the Occupational Safety Document for Fur and Leather Products: Secrets to Protecting Health in the Manufacturing of Leather Bags, Fur Coats, Crocodile Leather Belts… and many other products. Learn how to ensure a safe working environment, minimize risks, and protect the workforce. Equip yourself with the knowledge to protect yourself and your employees, creating a quality and sustainable working environment.

Table of Contents

PART I: CURRENT STATE OF SAFETY IN THE FUR AND LEATHER PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

I. General Situation

The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs informs sectors and localities of the occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 and outlines key solutions to proactively prevent incidents and accidents in the last 6 months of 2024. According to reports from 61 out of 63 centrally governed provinces and cities, in the first 6 months of 2024, there were a total of 3,201 occupational accidents nationwide (a decrease of 227 cases, equivalent to 7.09% compared to the same period in 2023), resulting in 3,065 victims (a decrease of 197 people, equivalent to 6.04% compared to the first 6 months of 2023), including both employees under labor contracts and those working without labor contracts. Specifically:

Number of fatal occupational accidents: 320 cases, a decrease of 25 cases (7.25%) compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 245 cases in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 28 cases or 10.3%; and 75 cases in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 3 cases or 4.2% compared to the first 6 months of 2023);
Number of deaths due to occupational accidents: 346 people, a decrease of 7 people or 1.98% compared to the same period in 2023 (including 268 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 13 people or 4.63%; and 78 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 6 people or 8.33%).
Number of people seriously injured: 810 people, an increase of 26 people or 3.32% compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 710 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 5 people or 0.7%; and 100 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 31 people or 44.92%).

Download the PDF file Occupational Accident Report – First 6 Months of 2024 issued by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs.

The occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 in both sectors with and without labor relations saw a decrease in the number of deaths and fatal accidents compared to the same period in 2023.

II. Some occupational accidents in fur and leather product factories

The production of fur and leather products such as leather handbags, fur coats, crocodile leather belts… requires a complex and risky work process. In the factories producing these products, many serious occupational accidents have occurred. Here are some notable cases:

Chemical accidents:
- During the processing of leather and fur, workers are exposed to many toxic chemicals such as detergents, dyes, preservatives… Some accidents have occurred due to incidents during the use or storage of these types of chemicals.
Fire and explosion risk:
- The use of continuously operating machinery in the production environment requires a high degree of caution. Some serious accidents have occurred due to fires and explosions in the factory, usually due to problems with the electrical system or technical failures on the production equipment.
Occupational safety issues:
- Those who work in fur and leather product factories often have to work in a humid environment, with a lot of dust and chemical odors. This poses a health risk such as respiratory diseases and skin allergies. In addition, the use of powerful machinery can also cause accidents due to cutting, crushing, or impact.
Production pressure:
- To meet market demand, many fur and leather product factories force workers to work long hours and impose excessively high production targets. This pressure can lead to fatigue, lack of concentration, and an increased risk of occupational accidents.

Occupational accidents in fur and leather product factories are a matter of concern, and require special attention from both the government and the industry to improve working conditions and ensure worker safety.

PART II: OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH WHEN MANUFACTURING FUR AND LEATHER PRODUCTS

I. Occupational safety and health for employees operating cutting and polishing machines

1. Job characteristics of operating cutting and polishing machines

Operating cutting and polishing machines in the fur and leather product manufacturing process plays an important role in creating the main components of the final product. This job requires precision and technical skills to ensure that the cut and polished pieces of fabric or leather achieve the desired quality.

During the operation of the cutting machine, the employee must be able to set up and adjust the machine according to the specific technical parameters for each type of raw material and product size. The accuracy in this process determines the uniformity and accuracy of the cut material pieces, which helps to increase production efficiency and reduce waste.

After the raw material has been cut into pieces of fabric or leather, the next polishing job will create a smoother and more beautiful surface. The machine operator needs to control parameters such as pressure, speed, and the type of polishing material to ensure that the surface of the final product achieves the desired quality and complies with aesthetic and quality standards.

In summary, operating cutting and polishing machines in the fur and leather product manufacturing process requires expertise and technical skills to ensure that the final product is of high quality and meets the needs of the market.

2. Types of occupational accidents during the operation of cutting and polishing machines

Cutting and collision accidents:
- During the operation of the cutting machine, workers are at risk of being cut or hit by parts of the machine. This can happen when safety rules are not followed or due to a technical problem with the machine.
Risk of hand and foot injuries:
- Workers often have to work near cutting and polishing machines, with the risk of hand and foot injuries due to collision, crushing, or getting caught between machine parts.
Danger from working materials:
- Using cutting and polishing machines sometimes requires contact with sharp and toxic materials. Improper contact can lead to health problems such as skin allergies, infections, or burns.
Technical incidents:
- Cutting and polishing machines can experience unwanted technical incidents, including breakdowns or loss of control. These incidents can lead to serious accidents if not handled promptly.
Fatigue and lack of concentration:
- Having to work continuously in a noisy and stressful environment can cause fatigue and reduce the concentration of workers, leading to the risk of accidents.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when operating cutting and polishing machines

Lack of training and understanding:
- Workers who are not fully trained on how to use and operate various types of cutting and polishing machines can lead to improper work, increasing the risk of accidents.
Technical problems and maintenance:
- Cutting and polishing machines can experience technical problems or are not regularly maintained, leading to the risk of accidents during operation.
Lack of safety procedures:
- The lack of specific safety procedures or the failure to comply with occupational safety regulations can create an unsafe working environment, leading to accidents.
Production pressure:
- Workers may feel pressure from the need to complete work quickly and efficiently, which can lead to overwork or non-compliance with safety procedures.
Lack of protective equipment:
- Using cutting and polishing machines without wearing proper protective equipment such as masks, gloves, and heat-resistant clothing can pose a risk of injury.
Unsafe working environment:
- A humid, noisy, or poorly lit working environment can reduce concentration and increase the risk of accidents.

4. Measures to prevent occupational accidents when operating cutting and polishing machines

Occupational safety training:
- Provide full and comprehensive training on occupational safety for all workers involved in operating cutting and polishing machines. This training includes risk identification, use of protective equipment, and safety rules when working near machinery.
Regular inspection and maintenance:
- Implement regular inspection and maintenance schedules for cutting and polishing machines to ensure they operate safely and efficiently. Workers should also be trained to recognize signs of technical problems and report them promptly.
Use of protective equipment:
- Ensure that all workers are fully equipped with protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, aprons, and safety shoes. This helps protect them from the risk of being cut, hit, and exposed to toxic materials.
Supervision and support:
- Have a strict supervision system to ensure that all safety rules are followed and provide support to workers when needed. This includes supervising the work site and providing guidance and technical support when needed.
Creating a safe working environment:
- Strengthen measures to create a safe working environment, including reducing noise, improving working conditions, and ensuring adequate ventilation and lighting.

5. Occupational safety regulations for operating cutting and polishing machines

Training and education:
- All workers involved in operating cutting and polishing machines need to be trained and educated on occupational safety rules, machine operating techniques, and the use of protective equipment.
Use of protective equipment:
- Workers must always ensure they are wearing full protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, aprons, and safety shoes when working near cutting and polishing machines.
Machine inspection before use:
- Before starting cutting and polishing machines, a thorough inspection is needed to ensure they are operating safely and efficiently.
Supervision and support:
- There is a strict supervision system to ensure that all safety rules are followed and to provide support to workers when needed.
Minimizing the risk of collision and cutting:
- Measures need to be taken to minimize the risk of collision and cutting, including the use of safety guards and limiting direct contact with machine parts.
Incident reporting:
- Workers should be trained to recognize and report any incidents or safety risks in a timely manner during machine operation.

6. Handling emergency occupational accidents when operating cutting and polishing machines

Safety protection:
- Immediately, ensure your own safety and that of the worker by stopping the cutting and polishing machine and ensuring that everyone near the accident area moves away from danger.
Reporting:
- Report the accident immediately to the manager and the factory’s medical staff so they can provide the necessary support and medical care.
First aid:
- If there are injured people, provide first aid immediately by calling an ambulance or taking the injured person to the nearest medical facility.
Preserving the accident scene:
- Preserve the accident scene until accident investigators arrive and conduct an investigation. Do not move any items or machinery related to the accident until the investigation is complete.
Collecting information:
- Record all detailed information about the accident including the time, location, witnesses, and a specific description of how the accident happened.
Evaluation and improvement:
- After the accident, conduct a detailed evaluation of the cause and consequences of the accident, from which to propose improvement measures to prevent similar accidents from happening in the future.

II. Occupational safety and health for processing and sewing staff

1. Job characteristics of processing and sewing

The processing and sewing work plays an important role in the production process of fur and leather products. After the leather pieces have been cut into small parts, they will be transferred to the processing plants to form the components of the final product such as handbags, fur coats, belts, and many other products.

The processing and sewing work requires a high degree of precision and craftsmanship from the workers. They need to perform stages such as cutting, sewing, buttoning, and finishing the details of the product according to specific technical drawings and instructions.

In addition, this work also requires a high degree of concentration and the ability to work according to quality and time requirements. Workers need to work carefully to ensure that each product meets the highest standards in both design and quality.

2. Types of occupational accidents during processing and sewing

Cutting and puncture accidents:
- The use of cutting tools such as scissors and machine knives can cause cutting and puncture accidents if safety rules are not followed or due to inattention at work.
Risk of heat:
- During the sewing process, the use of machinery can generate high temperatures, posing a risk of burns or scalds if safety measures are not followed and appropriate protective equipment is not used.
Danger from machinery and equipment:
- Using sewing machines and buttoning equipment can cause accidents if safety regulations are not followed or if the machines are broken or not regularly maintained.
Technical incidents:
- Technical incidents on machinery and equipment can occur unexpectedly, posing a risk of accidents if not handled promptly or if the worker is not trained to respond.
Loss of concentration and carelessness:
- Working in a noisy and highly focused environment requires a high degree of attention and concentration. Loss of concentration can lead to carelessness and accidents.

3. Causes of occupational accidents during processing and sewing

Lack of training and education:
- Workers who lack knowledge and skills about the work process and the use of equipment can lead to accidents due to carelessness or a lack of understanding of occupational safety.
Use of unsafe or broken equipment:
- The use of unsafe or broken sewing equipment can lead to accidents if they cause technical problems or do not operate correctly.
Lack of safety management:
- A weak safety management system or failure to comply with occupational safety regulations can create conditions for accidents to occur.
Failure to follow safety rules:
- Failure to use proper protective equipment or to follow safety rules such as not working when tired can lead to accidents.
Unsafe working environment:
- An unsafe working environment such as lack of lighting, poor ventilation, or a narrow workspace can also create conditions for accidents to occur.
Loss of concentration and carelessness:
- Loss of concentration and carelessness from workers due to work pressure, fatigue, or other factors can also contribute to accidents.

4. Measures to prevent occupational accidents during processing and sewing

Training and education:
- Provide full training on occupational safety and the use of protective equipment for all workers involved in the processing and sewing process.
Occupational environment monitoring:
- Conduct periodic monitoring of occupational environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, lighting, and noise to ensure that the working environment meets safety standards.
Use of protective equipment:
- Ensure that all workers are fully equipped with protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, aprons, and safety shoes to protect them from the risk of injury.
Inspection and maintenance of equipment:
- Perform regular inspection and maintenance of sewing equipment to ensure that they operate safely and efficiently.
Occupational safety management:
- Implement strict management of occupational safety in the factory, including establishing safe work procedures, supervising the work site, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Minimizing the risk of carelessness:
- Strengthen supervision and provide regular training to minimize the risk of carelessness from workers, especially in a work environment that requires a high degree of concentration.

5. Occupational safety regulations for processing and sewing

Occupational safety training: All workers involved in the processing and sewing process should be trained on the risks and accident prevention measures, as well as how to use protective equipment correctly.
Use of protective equipment: Provide full and mandatory use of protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, protective aprons, and safety shoes to protect workers from the risk of injury.
Inspection and maintenance of equipment: Perform regular inspection and maintenance of sewing and processing equipment to ensure they operate correctly and safely.
Management of the working environment: Ensure that the working environment meets safety standards for temperature, humidity, lighting, and noise.
Compliance with occupational safety regulations: Workers must comply with all occupational safety rules and regulations established by the regulatory agency and the enterprise to ensure safety during work.

6. Handling emergency occupational accidents during processing and sewing

Protecting life and health: The first and most important thing is to ensure the safety of the victim and all other employees. Immediately call for an ambulance if necessary and provide first aid to the victim.
Reporting the accident: Report the accident to the manager or the safety department in the company. The report must be made immediately to be able to determine the cause and implement similar preventive measures in the future.
Protecting the accident scene: Limit access to the accident area and ensure that there is no risk of further accidents or injury to anyone else.
Collecting information: Record all relevant information about the accident, including witnesses, the time of the accident, and a description of the event. This may be useful for the investigation later.
Emotional support: Provide emotional support to the victim and other employees in the company after the accident. This may include providing counseling or support from mental health professionals.

III. Occupational safety and health for painting and finishing staff

1. Job characteristics of painting and finishing

Surface preparation: Before painting or finishing, the product surface needs to be thoroughly cleaned and prepared to ensure that the paint or coating adheres firmly and evenly.
Choice of coating: The types of coatings such as paint, glue, or waterproof material are selected based on the specific requirements of the product and the intended use. The coating must ensure durability, water resistance, and aesthetics.
Painting and finishing: Paint or coating is applied to the product surface through methods such as spray painting, roller painting, or hand painting, depending on the specific requirements and production process.
Quality control: After painting and finishing, the product is quality checked to ensure that the coating is applied evenly and the quality meets the requirements.
Storage and transportation: After finishing, the product needs to be stored and transported carefully to ensure that the coating is not damaged and maintains its aesthetic appeal.

2. Types of occupational accidents during painting and finishing

Chemical risk: The use of paints, glues, or waterproof materials can be hazardous to health if not used correctly or without appropriate protective measures.
Fire and explosion risk: Paints and other coatings can pose a fire and explosion risk if they come into contact with a heat source or if they are not stored and used correctly.
Risk of inhaling toxic fumes: During painting and finishing, toxic fumes from the coatings can pose a risk of inhalation and damage to the respiratory tract.
Risk of impact: The work of moving and transporting finished products can lead to a risk of impact or injury to workers if proper safety measures are not taken.
Risk of occupational safety: Working in a painting and finishing environment requires strict adherence to occupational safety regulations and measures to avoid accidents and injuries.

3. Causes of occupational accidents when painting and finishing

Contact with toxic chemicals: Using coatings such as paint, glue, or waterproof material can expose workers to toxic chemicals, posing a risk to their health if proper protective measures are not taken.
Lack of knowledge and training: Workers who lack knowledge and training on how to use and handle coatings can lead to dangerous situations and unwanted accidents.
Lack of protective equipment: Paints and other coatings can be harmful to the skin and respiratory system. The lack of protective equipment such as masks, gloves, and protective aprons can increase the risk for workers.
Fire and explosion risk: Paints and other coatings can pose a fire and explosion risk if not used correctly or if they come into contact with a heat source.
Lack of safety management: The lack of management and technical supervision during the painting and finishing process can lead to the neglect of safety measures and an increased risk of occupational accidents.

4. Measures to prevent occupational accidents when painting and finishing

Training and guidance: Provide full training on occupational safety and guidance on how to use coatings and protective equipment. Ensure that all employees have the necessary knowledge and skills to work safely.
Use of protective equipment: Ensure that all workers are fully equipped with and use protective equipment such as masks, gloves, protective aprons, and safety glasses to protect themselves from direct contact with toxic coatings and other risks.
Control of fire and explosion risk: Perform regular inspection and maintenance of painting and finishing equipment to ensure that they operate correctly and do not pose a fire and explosion risk. Store and use coatings in a safe and controlled environment.
Waste management: Dispose of waste from the painting and finishing process in a safe and legal manner, ensuring no danger to the environment and human health.
Risk supervision and assessment: Conduct regular supervision and risk assessment to identify and eliminate potential risks, and to improve the occupational safety system.

5. Occupational safety regulations for painting and finishing

Training and guidance: All employees involved in the painting and finishing process must be trained on the risks and accident prevention measures. They need to be instructed on how to use protective equipment and coatings safely. Take tests at occupational safety centers to obtain an occupational safety certificate. This will ensure that workers understand safety knowledge and have valid certification for employment.
Use of protective equipment: All workers must be equipped with and use full protective equipment such as masks, gloves, protective aprons, and safety glasses to protect their health during work.
Control of fire and explosion risk: It is necessary to inspect and maintain painting and finishing equipment periodically to ensure safety and prevent the risk of fire and explosion.
Waste management: The handling and disposal of waste from the painting and finishing process must comply with regulations on environmental protection and human health.
Risk supervision and assessment: Regular supervision and risk assessment are needed to detect and eliminate potential risks, and to improve the occupational safety system.

6. Handling emergency occupational accidents when painting and finishing

Ensure safety: As soon as an accident is detected, it is necessary to immediately protect yourself and others by moving out of the dangerous area if possible.
Report and provide first aid: Workers should immediately report the accident to the manager or the occupational safety department. Provide first aid to the victim and call for an ambulance if necessary.
Preserve the wound: If possible, provide first aid to the victim by preserving the wound and providing basic first aid measures such as compressing the wound to control bleeding.
Contact a medical professional: After initial first aid, it is necessary to contact a medical professional immediately or take the victim to the nearest medical facility for further treatment.
Report the accident: The accident should be reported to the occupational safety management agency or the local government agency according to regulations to conduct an investigation and determine the root cause of the accident.

IV. Occupational safety and health for packaging and transportation staff

1. Job characteristics of packaging and transportation

Careful packaging: The finished product will be carefully packaged to ensure safety and to avoid damage during transportation. The packaging materials must meet quality and product protection standards against impact and the external environment.
Preparation for transportation: After packaging, the product will be prepared for transportation to the point of sale or the end customer. A thorough check is needed to ensure that all products are packaged correctly and ready for delivery.
Warehouse and transportation management: It is necessary to establish and maintain efficient warehouse and transportation management processes to ensure that the product is transported to the right place and at the right time, while minimizing losses and risks in the process.
Environmental protection: During transportation, it is necessary to pay attention to environmental protection by using energy-saving transportation methods and minimizing emissions, as well as reusing and recycling packaging materials to reduce waste.

2. Types of occupational accidents during packaging and transportation

Collision accidents: The work of moving and stacking goods during packaging and transportation can lead to collision accidents, causing injury to workers if safety measures are not followed and protective equipment is not used.
Loss and damage: The product may be lost or damaged during transportation if not carefully packaged or if the transportation vehicle is not safe and stable.
Risk of toxic contamination: Some products may contain toxic chemicals, posing a danger to workers if they come into direct contact during packaging and transportation.
Crushing accidents: The equipment and machinery in the packaging and transportation process can cause crushing accidents if workers do not follow safety measures and are not careful at work.
Risk of unsafe driving: The driver of the transport vehicle also faces the risk of a traffic accident, especially when moving on a street with many vehicles or in harsh weather conditions.

3. Causes of occupational accidents during packaging and transportation

Lack of training: Workers who are not fully trained on occupational safety measures and the proper work process, leading to unsafe work practices.
Unsafe equipment: Using unsafe or improperly maintained equipment and machinery can lead to accidents and injuries to workers.
Lack of attention: During transportation, a lack of attention and care can lead to collision accidents or falling objects from the transport vehicle, posing a danger to people around.
Errors in management: The manager does not understand occupational safety procedures or does not conduct proper inspection and supervision, leading to unwanted accidents.
Lack of preparation: When there is no detailed transportation plan and no adequate preparation before transportation, it can lead to unsafe situations and accidents during the product movement process.

4. Measures to prevent occupational accidents when packaging and transporting

Training and guidance: Provide full training on safe work procedures, use of protective equipment, and occupational accident prevention measures. Ensure all workers are well-versed in the work process and know how to respond to unwanted situations. Complete occupational safety training to be issued an occupational safety card by the safety training center to complete the required documentation for work.
Use of protective equipment: Ensure that all workers use full and correct personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and safety shoes to protect themselves from collision and injury risks.
Equipment maintenance: Perform regular maintenance on equipment and machinery used in the packaging and transportation process to ensure they are always stable and safe.
Safe transportation vehicle inspection: Before transporting the product, inspect and ensure that the transport vehicle meets safety standards, including checking the brake system, lighting, and allowable load.
Thorough preparation: Make a detailed transportation plan and prepare thoroughly before starting the packaging and transportation process. Ensure the product is carefully and stably packaged to avoid loss and damage during transportation.

5. Occupational safety regulations for packaging and transportation

Compliance with safety procedures: All workers must comply with the established safe work procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment and adherence to safety measures when working near equipment and machinery.
Equipment inspection: Before use, it is necessary to inspect and ensure that all packaging and transportation equipment is working correctly and does not pose a danger to workers.
Use of protective equipment: All workers involved in the packaging and transportation process must use full and correct personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, and gloves to protect themselves from collision and injury risks.
Regular training: Regular training should be provided to all workers on new occupational safety procedures, as well as updating information on accident prevention measures and the need to comply with safety regulations.
Supervision and assessment: The manager should regularly supervise and assess the effectiveness of the applied occupational safety measures, and make adjustments when necessary to ensure the safety and efficiency of the work process.

6. Handling emergency occupational accidents when packaging and transporting

Protecting the victim: The first and most important thing is to ensure the safety of the victim. Immediately provide first aid and medical care to the injured person, and at the same time isolate the accident area and protect the worker from the risk of contact with hazardous materials.
Reporting and recording: Immediately after handling the emergency situation, it is necessary to report the accident to the manager and the authorities, and at the same time make a detailed record of the event, including information about the victim, the cause of the accident, and the measures that have been taken.
Conducting an investigation: After ensuring the safety of everyone, it is necessary to conduct an investigation to determine the cause of the accident and take remedial measures to prevent a recurrence in the future. It is necessary to cooperate closely with the authorities and the occupational safety department to conduct a careful and accurate investigation.
Improving the process: Based on the investigation results, it is necessary to make improvements to the work process and occupational safety to prevent similar accidents in the future. At the same time, it is necessary to provide full training and guidance to employees on how to prevent accidents and respond in emergency situations.
Emotional support: During the accident handling process, it is necessary to provide emotional support to the affected worker, including the victim and their colleagues. This helps them overcome the event and recover quickly.