Abstract:

The aim of this study is to assess the general and occupational health status of a trade union representative women workers, the level of knowledge on occupational health and safety (OHS), and the contribution of given training to the knowledge level. Methods: This research is an intervention study in which a one-day OHS training in September 2015 is evaluated for female workers who are members of a trade union. 20 female workers in the preliminary test and 18 female workers in the final test were participated. The data were collected with questionnaires distributed to the participants before and after the training. The answers given to the questions about OHS were scored over 100, and the scores of the pre- and post-training information scores were generated. Results: Trainee 20 female workers participated and the average age was 39.0±5.45. 30% of participants are working in the textile sector, 25% are in metal product manufacturing and 20% are in the health sector. Participants' knowledge levels of OHS were calculated as 5.70±8.92 points before training and 46.72±19.86 points after training. This increase in knowledge scores after training was found to be statistically significant (Wilcoxon Test p<0.001). Proportion of correct knowledge and/or having a correct opinion based on pre-test responses; ways of entry into the body of workplace hazards 15%, protection precautions 30%, definition of occupational disease 20%, work-related disease definition 0%, the most frequent business lines that occupational accidents and occupational diseases occur. Proportion of correct knowledge and/or having a correct opinion based on post-test responses were respectively; 94.4%, 100%, 72.2%, 22.2% and 83.3%. Conclusion: It has been determined that workers have little knowledge and awareness of the OHS and giving training to the workers on the issue is an effective way to increase them. Periodic repetition of training will increase awareness about the subject. Besides trade unions support workers within the scope of rights challenges, it is important that they prioritize OHS training and increase these activities.

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