Workers assigned to the factory’s waste pond, where they handle chemical waste, face the risk of developing “occupational diseases.” To mitigate this, the factory rotates employees for tasks such as discharging chemical wastewater resulted from cleaning, washing, and spraying metal. This role is significantly better paid, offering around $1,000 per month compared to approximately $685 for other roles like packaging or welding due to its potential hazard.

The waste pond is only about 1 meter deep, but as I stood above and looked down, it felt like an abyss waiting to devour me. The swirling water churned ominously, as if it had just consumed someone. A chill ran through me. It immediately brought to mind images of torment and torture. During the tour, my manager explained that falling in wouldn’t mean drowning—it would mean being burned by corrosive chemicals.