Document Type

Capstone Experience

Graduation Date

12-2019

Degree Name

Master of Public Health

Department

Environmental, Agricultural & Occupational Health

First Committee Member

Dr. Chandran Achutan, PhD, CIH

Second Committee Member

Dr. Kenesh Dzhusupov, MD, PhD

Third Committee Member

Dr. Lorena Baccaglini, DDS, PhD

Abstract

Objectives – The purpose of this study was to identify occupational hazards and personal protective equipment use on farms operating in Kyrgyzstan.

Methods – We recruited 20 farmers in Kyrgyzstan. They completed a questionnaire and responded to interview questions to determine their occupational hazards, personal protective equipment use, and work-related injuries. We measured noise levels using the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health sound level meter application for Apple iOS.

Results – Most farmers reported knowing how and when to use personal protective equipment, however 95 percent had not received training on how to use them. Observation of farmers revealed gaps in protective equipment use. Farmers reported workplace injury (15 percent) and one farmer reported time off due to the injury. Farmers reported suffering from one or more heat-related health symptom (30 percent). In six farms (30 percent), noise levels, originating from animal and equipment sources, exceeded 85 decibels on an A-weighted scale.

Conclusion – Farmers in Kyrgyzstan are potentially exposed to workplace hazards. While stated farmer knowledge of personal protective equipment use was high, the implementation of personal protective equipment appeared to be low. Providing low to no cost personal protective equipment along with training to farmers and their colleagues may be an effective strategy in reducing barriers to increase protective equipment use and reduce workplace injuries.

Download

Included in

Public Health Commons

Share

COinS