Workplace Environmental Exposures and Related Health Conditions among Amish & Mennonite Women in Ohio

Keywords

occupational health; workplace; environmental exposure; health hazards; furniture finishing

Abstract

Background: Although it is known that some plain (Amish and conservative Mennonite) women work in furniture finishing shops, commercial greenhouses, and on family farms, little is known about their exposure to harmful conditions and substances in those work environments and the incidence of any related illnesses. Aim: To assess the relationship between the exposure to potentially harmful environmental conditions and general health conditions, work-related illnesses, and work-related injuries, comparing adult plain women with adult women of the general population. Methods: Data in this exploratory, concurrent, mixed methods study were collected using a 24-item survey and semi-structured interviews. Descriptive and correlational statistics were calculated in the quantitative arm. Thematic analysis was conducted in the qualitative arm. Results: 196 women in Ohio completed the survey, 95 plain and 101 of the general population. Plain women were more likely to work in agricultural and factory settings than non-plain women and their Potential for Illness by Exposure (PIE) mean score was significantly higher. Seventy-five percent of the women who worked in furniture finishing shops did not wear protective gear when exposed to furniture dust. Of those who worked in greenhouses, two-thirds indicated exposure to pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Plain women working in these settings reported workplace-related illnesses more frequently (p = .037) than women from the general population. Ten plain women were interviewed in-depth. Interview themes included a preference for natural vs. chemical products, attitudes toward chemical exposures, and negative health outcomes working in particular settings. Discussion: This exploratory study is believed to be the first of its kind to examine Amish and Mennonite women’s exposures to harmful substances and hazardous situations in the workplace and relate them to a history of health conditions. Plain women who work in agricultural settings and furniture finishing occupations have an increased risk for occupational-related health problems. Recommendations: Since the potential for future illness related to harmful environmental factors in Ohio’s plain community is considerable, and the effects of those environments on plain women’s health remain to be verified, heightened preventative precautions should be promoted in plain communities by individuals, employers, and health care advocates. [Abstract by authors.]

Recommended Citation

Wyss, Lora, Ratchneewan Ross, and Rosanna Hess. 2025. "Workplace Environmental Exposures and Related Health Conditions among Amish & Mennonite Women in Ohio." Journal of Amish and Plain Anabaptist Studies 13(1-2):1–16.