15. Textile Mill Worker
Textile mill workers in the 1800s faced numerous health risks due to their work environment. The air in mills was thick with lint, which workers inhaled, leading to respiratory issues such as “mill fever.” Dangerous machinery posed another significant threat, with workers often suffering injuries from moving parts, as there were no safety guards or emergency stops. The noise and dust created a harsh environment, exacerbating health problems and posing daily risks. Despite these challenges, textile mill workers were crucial to the booming fabric industry. For more on the history of textile mills, explore this BBC Bitesize guide.
