Thai Journal of Safety and Health

Editorial note

Pathanin Sangaroon — 2025-06-29

Identification and assessment human error probability in rice cultivation processes of farmers in Pho Prathap Chang district, Phichit province

Totsapon Butmee — 2025-06-29

In the rice cultivation process, farmers might make mistakes and can cause accidents at work. This study aimed to 1) identify types of human errors, 2) assess the contributing factors, and 3) quantify the probability of human errors in rice cultivation processes performed by farmers in Pho Prathap Chang District, Phichit Province, Thailand. Forty-two farmers were involved in the study. Human errors types were categorized by using the Systematic Human Error Reduction and Prediction Approach (SHERPA). In addition, the probability and conditions leading to human error were calculated by using the Cognitive Reliability Analysis Method (CREAM).

The results revealed that manual transplanting might reveal 53 human errors types, with "Action errors" being the most frequent errors (75.47%). Regarding to CREAM analysis indicated cognitive failure probability total of 0.031 for manual transplanting, with opportunistic control in place. Moreover, the conditions may lead to farmer errors including inadequate working conditions, the readiness of existing plans and procedures, the number of concurrent goals exceeding capabilities, and the lack of effective teamwork among members. The findings of this research can be utilized as a guideline to prevent human errors in the rice cultivation process among farmers, thereby reducing the occurrence of accidents and enhancing work efficiency.

Development of the Artificial Intelligence for Object Detection with YOLOv8 for Increasing Efficiency of Incidents Detection of Warehouse Forklift Operators in Rayong Province

Patomphong Homsri — 2025-06-29

Detection and reporting incidents by employees are significant issues: employees still lack incident reporting. This study aims to (1) enhance the image processing capabilities of the YOLOv8 program using Raspberry Pi 5 to detect undesirable incidents in forklift operations and (2) compare the number of recorded incidents before and after implementing the improved YOLOv8 program. The improvement process includes (1) inputting the dataset, (2) training the model with two sets: one for distances inside one meter and another for distances between one and three meters, and (3) applying a 15% sampling rate. The research found that the AI-based image processing technique had an average object detection accuracy (mean Average Precision: mAP) of 85.35%. A study of forklift operator events found a statistically significant difference in the number of incidents before and after implementing AI-based incident detection, analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test at a significance level of p-value < 0.05. Furthermore, post-implementation user satisfaction was rated at the highest level, particularly in terms of increased benefits, compatibility, and the overall effectiveness of the YOLOv8 program.

Health Literacy for Preventing Hazards from Agricultural Chemicals through Social Support Processes in Ubon Ratchathani Province Communities

chaiyakrit yokphonchanachai — 2025-06-29

This quasi-experimental research utilized a social support process to study agricultural chemical safety literacy in a community in Ubon Ratchathani Province. The study involved a population of 782 individuals, with a purposive sampling of 213 participants from the community with the highest agricultural chemical usage in the province. The research employed a social support process based on the 3E safety theory: Engineering, Education, and Enforcement, conducted over eight sessions spanning three months. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire, with content validity indices of 0.76 and 0.82, respectively. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, including mean, frequency, percentage, standard deviation, and paired t-test.

The results revealed that most community members exhibited a high level of health literacy (93.9%) and safety behavior (92.0%) following the social support intervention based on the 3E safety theory. The average scores for health literacy and behavior showed statistically significant improvements, with a p-value < 0.001.

In conclusion, the community-based social support process utilizing the 3E safety management principles effectively enhanced health literacy for agricultural chemical safety. This led to improved safety behaviors in chemical usage within the community, indicating its potential applicability for safety management in other communities.

Health and Safety Impacts During the Construction of the Den Chai-Chiang Khong Double-track Railway affects surrounding people in the area of Chiang Rai Province

Warunee Phanwong — 2025-06-29

The construction of the Denchai-Chiang Khong double-track railway is a development project aimed at advancing and modernizing the country. However, it is crucial to consider the health and safety impacts and involve the public to minimize potential conflicts that may arise. The objective of this study is to examine the health and safety impacts as well as the level of public participation. The findings will be used to develop recommendations for public involvement to address the health and safety impacts associated with the construction of the Denchai-Chiang Khong double-track railway. The study is divided into two phases. The first phase involves quantitative research with a sample group of 433 participants. Data was collected using questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results revealed that the majority of participants (80.40%) did not experience health impacts, while 64.90% reported low levels of safety impacts. Regarding public participation, it was found to be at the lowest level, accounting for 83.40%. The second phase involves descriptive research utilizing secondary data from documents and focus group discussions with 30 participants. The analysis resulted in three key recommendations: health-related recommendations, safety-related recommendations, and other general recommendations. These findings will be beneficial for relevant agencies in designing and planning measures to prevent health and safety impacts on the public during the construction of the Denchai-Chiang Khong double-track railway. Additionally, they aim to reduce potential conflicts and complaints that may arise in the future.

The proportion of PM10 and PM2.5 by AERMOD model in Pathumwan District, Bangkok

Sutthicha Nillit — 2025-06-29

This study evaluates the proportions of PM₁₀and PM_2.5 particulate matter resulting from vehicular fuel combustion in urban areas, with a focus on Pathumwan District, Bangkok, a location characterized by high traffic density and consistently elevated levels of PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 that frequently exceed air quality standards. Using the AERMOD mathematical model, this research examines the impacts of particulate matter on air quality to provide a basis for mitigating public health risks. Meteorological data from 2018 to 2020, surface characteristics, and monitoring points in the study area were utilized in the analysis. The Gaussian Plume equation was applied to estimate the dispersion of particulate matter along roadways within the district. The model's results indicated an average PM₁₀ concentration of 83.52 µg/m³ and a maximum average PM_2.5 concentration of 80.28 µg/m³, particularly in the southern area of Pathumwan District. These modeled values were consistent with maximum observed levels recorded at the nearest air quality monitoring station located at Chulalongkorn Hospital (82 µg/m³). The PM_2.5:PM₁₀ ratio was calculated at 0.96, highlighting that vehicular emissions predominantly contribute to PM_2.5 particulate matter. The AERMOD model proved effective in estimating PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 emissions from vehicular sources, with results closely aligned with real-world measurements. Additionally, the model provided valuable insights into the proportions of PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 during periods when particulate levels exceeded air quality standards, facilitating the development of effective air quality management strategies to mitigate health impacts on the population.

Health Risk due to Exposure to Indoor Particulate Matter in Urban Area of Khon Kaen City

Phanuwat Sriyotha — 2025-06-29

This cross-sectional study aimed to determine concentration of indoor particulate matter (PM) in urban areas and to assess the public health risk due to the exposure the indoor particulate matter in Khon Kaen city. The samples were collected at two residential locations using a real-time PM monitor and personal air sampling pumps. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, presenting means, standard deviations, maximum, and minimum. The inferential statistic: one sample t-test was also conducted to compare means against regulatory standards.

The results showed that levels of Total Suspended Partiuclate (TSP) from the location 1 were lower than the regulatory standard (mean = 65.12 µg/m³, S.D. = 14.21). While, the levels of PM2.5 did exceed the regulatory standard (mean = 28.02 µg/m³, S.D. = 3.02). Levels of TSP and PM2.5 in the location 2 were observed lower than the regulatory standards (mean = 74.40 µg/m³, S.D. = 20.09; mean = 18.42 µg/m³, S.D. = 6.58). Additionally, risk assessment revealed that individuals at all ages from both locations were at risk of respiratory diseases due to exposure of PM2.5. The results of this research could be used to raise awareness among individuals for self-protection and to inform related agencies to develop PM mitigation measures.

Characteristics of Metal Fumes from Total and Respirable Dust Sampling Methods During Arc Welding in Flat Position

Phongsakorn Kumpeera — 2025-06-29

Welding is widely used in diverse sectors, including industrial process and general metal repair works. Exposure to welding fumes causes health impacts ranging from acute and chronic effects. This descriptive research aimed to study concentrations of metal fume exposures and morphology during arc welding in flat position. Four male professional welders with the certificate of standard test industrial technician level 1 participated this study. Their work experience was 17.33 ± 11.37 years. Following the experimental procedure, each subject performed a shielded metal arc welding of carbon steel (SS400) with groove butt joint and bead weld method. During welding, personal air samplings of total dust (NOSH#0500) and respirable dust (NOSH#0600) were collected at welders’ breathing zone. The filters of air sampling were analyzed using ICP-MS for 8 metal fumes: Ag, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Mn and Zn. Moreover, metal fumes generated from the welding processes were collected on a nucleopore membrane filter to analyze metal fume morphology including particle size and chemical element composition using FESEM-EDX. The results showed that concentrations of total 8 metal fumes from the total and respirable dust sampling were 1.12 ± 0.37 and 0.51 ± 0.78 mg/m³, respectively. High metal fume concentrations in total dust were Fe (0.98 mg/m³), Mn (0.10 mg/m³) and Zn (0.02 mg/m³) that were higher 2.27, 1.66 and 2.41 times respectively, when compared to those in respirable dust. For morphology analysis, fumes were typically arranged as chain-like agglomerates of ultrafine and nanoparticles. High percentage of element composition were C, O and Fe. In addition, metal trace elements including Mn and Si were observed.

Factors Related to The Risk Level from Pesticides Using among Cassava Farmers, Nakhon Ratchasima Province

Nattawut Kokkrathok — 2025-06-29

Currently, the health status among cassava farmers is at a high risk from pesticides poisoning. This cross-sectional analytical study aimed to study the factor related to the risk level from pesticides using among cassava farmers, Nakhon Ratchasima province. Total of 448 samples were selected using a multi-stage random sampling. The research instruments consisted of general information and health literacy questionnaires and the risk assessment from pesticides using among cassava farmers. Data were collected between March to May 2023. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression.

The results showed that: Most farmers had the health literacy level regarding the pesticides using at a mid-level (55.13%). The risk level among cassava farmers from pesticides using were mostly at a moderate level (39.29%) and at an acceptable level (62.95%) and the factors related to the risk level from pesticides using was found that gender, highest level of education, history of illness from pesticides using, obtaining information about pesticides using and the health literacy regarding pesticides using were related with the risk level from pesticides using that were significant statistically (p-value <0.05).

Therefore, the results can be developed to a guideline for monitoring and solving health risks among cassava farmers that pesticides using.

THE The Relationship between Eye Strain and Muscle Soreness among Weavers in Sam Khok District, Pathum Thani Province

Khwankhae Nunbhakdi — 2025-06-29

This research aimed to assess and investigate the relationship between eye strain and muscle discomfort among weavers in Sam Khok District, Pathum Thani Province. Data were collected from a sample group of 58 weavers. The tools used for data collection included questionnaires and a Flicker Fusion eye strain measurement device to gather data on two types of visual fatigue: subjective and objective visual fatigue, and a body discomfort assessment form. Data were analyzed using mean, percentage, and Chi-square tests. The results indicated that 43.1% of weavers experienced subjective eye strain, which increased to 62.1% when measured objectively. The prevalence of muscle discomfort in the seven days prior to the study showed that 39 weavers (67.2%) reported pain, primarily in the upper back (67.2%), right shoulder (56.9%), lower back, and left shoulder (53.4%), respectively. When examining the relationships, it was found that work experienced, break times, continuous sitting duration, and workload significantly influenced eye strain. Furthermore, objective eye strain was significantly correlated with muscle discomfort among weavers, with a statistical significance at the 0.05 level (p-value = 0.00). These findings highlight the close relationship between eye strain and muscle discomfort, both of which are forms of physical fatigue. This emphasizes the importance of proper eye and body care, adequate rest, and adjustments to the work environment in preventing these issues.

The Relationship Between Work-Related Factors and COVID-19-Related Factors and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Among Healthcare Personnel During The COVID-19 Pandemic at a Hospital in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Songkran Treeosod — 2025-06-29

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among healthcare professionals worldwide due to the increasing number of infected patients. Healthcare workers face heavier workloads, directly affecting both their physical and mental health. This cross-sectional research study utilized the DASS-21 questionnaire with 245 healthcare personnel at a hospital in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The research findings revealed that the prevalence rates of depression, anxiety, and stress among healthcare workers at the hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic were 29.4%, 37.6%, and 16.7%, respectively. The research found that depression was statistically significantly associated (p<0.05) with department of work, contact with confirmed cases, residence in high-risk areas, concerns about transmitting infection from workplace to home, and social stigma. Meanwhile, anxiety showed statistically significant relationships (p<0.05) with department of work, working hours, work-related risks for COVID-19 infection, history of COVID-19 infection, residence in high-risk areas, and social stigma. Regarding stress, statistically significant associations (p<0.05) were found with working hours, contact with confirmed cases, work-related risks for COVID-19 infection, residence in high-risk areas, and social stigma.

This study highlights the necessity of developing mental health support systems for healthcare personnel, especially for high-risk groups such as those working in departments with direct patient contact or those with extended working hours. Additionally, measures should be implemented to reduce social stigma, including providing safe accommodation for healthcare personnel residing in high-risk areas. The establishment of occupationally safe environments and coupled with psychosocial support to healthcare represents a critical determinant in sustaining healthcare system efficacy during infectious disease outbreaks.

The The Correlation Between Attitude, Information Perception and Behavior Plastic Waste Management of Village Health Volunteers in Saraburi Municipality, Saraburi Province

Mutthita Bunla — 2025-06-29

This study is descriptive research aimed to study personal factors, attitudes toward plastic waste management, information perception, and plastic waste management behaviors among village health volunteers in Saraburi Municipality, Saraburi Province. It also investigates the relationship between attitudes toward plastic waste management, information perception, and plastic waste management behaviors. The population consists of all 182 Village Health Volunteers in Saraburi Municipality. A questionnaire was used to collect data, and descriptive analysis was performed to calculate the average, percentage, standard deviation, and correlation using Pearson's correlation coefficient.

The research findings revealed that attitudes toward plastic waste management (= 3.76, SD = 0.67), information perception (= 3.86, SD = 0.63), and plastic waste management behaviors (= 3.67, SD = 0.59) were all at high levels. Correlation analysis indicated that attitudes toward plastic waste management and information perception had a strong positive relationship with plastic waste management behaviors among village health volunteers in Saraburi Municipality, Saraburi Province, with statistical significance at the .01 level (r = 0.667, p < 0.001; r = 0.614, p < 0.001, respectively). Therefore, Saraburi Municipality should implement activities to extend these findings to the general public to promote behavioral changes in plastic waste management, with village health volunteers serving as key facilitators. Additionally, policies related to plastic waste management should be further developed and strengthened in the area.

Quality of Life and Factors Associated with the Quality of Life Among Cervical Cancer Patients after treatment at Ubonratchathani Cancer Hospital

Sairung Prakobchit — 2025-06-29

This cross-sectional analytical research aimed to study quality of life and factors associated with among cervical cancer patients after treatment at Ubonratchathani Cancer Hospital. The sample consisted of 77 cervical cancer patients who were 1-12 months After treatment. Data were collected from June to December 2024 using questionnaires on demographic data, clinical factors, psychosocial factors, and quality of life assessment tools (EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ-CX24). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and stepwise multiple regression analysis. Results showed that overall quality of life was at a moderate level (Mean= 61.03, SD=18.94), with physical functioning scoring highest (Mean =85.71, SD =19.15). Factors significantly associated with quality of life were disease stage (Beta=-0.23, p<.001), psychosocial factors (Beta=0.14, p=0.018), and fatigue symptoms (Beta=-0.69, p<.001), collectively explaining 80.5% of the variance in quality of life. Recommendations include developing a holistic care system, particularly for patients with advanced disease, enhancing social support, and implementing an effective fatigue management system.

Factors Associated with Self-Care Behaviors in the Preventive of Non-Communicable Diseases Among Security Guards at a University in Northern Thailand

Vanisara Mahawattanapheechar — 2025-06-29

This cross-sectional analytical study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and self-care behaviors regarding the prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among security guards and to identify factors associated with these self-care behaviors at a university in Northern Thailand. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire from 120 security guards aged 15–59, selected through simple random sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Chi-square tests and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient were applied to examine associations and correlations. The findings revealed that most security guards had a moderate level of knowledge about NCD prevention (45.8%). Similarly, attitudes toward NCD prevention were predominantly moderate (63.3%), and the majority demonstrated moderate self-care behaviors in NCD prevention (71.7%). Factors such as gender (𝑥² = 5.410, df = 1, p = 0.020), marital status (𝑥² = 4.628, df = 1, p = 0.031), smoking (𝑥² = 5.122, df = 1, p = 0.024), alcohol consumption (𝑥² = 7.051, df = 1, p = 0.008), and energy drink consumption (𝑥² = 5.094, df = 1, p = 0.024) were significantly associated with self-care behaviors in NCD prevention. Furthermore, knowledge and attitude scores were positively correlated with self-care behavior scores, with statistical significance (r_s = 0.559, p < 0.001; r_s = 0.403, p < 0.001, respectively).

These findings suggest training programs should be introduced to improve knowledge and awareness of NCD prevention measures. These programs should focus on dietary control and reducing risk factors, such as smoking cessation, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding energy drinks. Regular annual health check-ups should also be encouraged to support effective NCD prevention.

Factors Associated with Sick Building Syndrome among Hospital Workers

Chananya Panikhom — 2025-06-29

This analytical cross-sectional study aimed to investigate factors associate with Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) among hospital workers (n=159). Data were collected using questionnaires and air quality measurement devices, including the TSI Q-Trak 7575 for carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, the TSI VelociCalc 9565-P for air velocity, and the TSI DustTrak DRX Aerosol Monitor for PM_2.5and PM₁₀, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics (e.g., frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, median, minimum, and maximum values) and inferential statistics (Multiple Logistic Regression). The results showed that the majority of workers were female, age between 30-49 years, with a bachelor's degree, and worked in nursing roles. The prevalence of SBS was 45.28%, with the highest occurrence of neurological symptoms (35.85%). Air quality measurements across 11 areas revealed four parameters failed to meet standards: temperature, relative humidity, particulate matter (PM_2.5), and particulate matter (PM₁₀). Statistically significant factors (p<0.05) associated with SBS included gender (female) (p = 0.040), education level (p = 0.048), work overtime (p = 0.005), discomfort while working or being inside the building (p < 0.001), a history of chronic health conditions (p = 0.034), and exposure to PM_2.5 (p = 0.040). Workers in environments with these factors had a higher risk of developing SBS. The findings suggest that both personal and work-related factors, as well as the environmental conditions of the building, contribute to SBS symptoms among hospital workers. Regular monitoring and improvement of indoor air quality are recommended to improve the health and well-being of both workers and patients.

Health Behaviors of Patients with Diabetes and Hypertension: A Case Study of Ban Nam Khong Sub-district Health Promoting Hospital, Mueang Phrae District, Phrae Province

Kanlayanee No-in — 2025-06-29

This descriptive study aimed to investigate health behaviors and their levels among patients with diabetes and hypertension in four areas: dietary consumption, exercise, emotional management, and medication adherence. The sample consisted of two groups: 57 patients providing quantitative data, selected through simple random sampling, and 10 patients providing qualitative data. Research instruments included a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview guide. The content validity of both instruments by using item objective congruence (IOC) was 0.60 – 1.00, and the overall questionnaire reliability by using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.78. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis.

The study showed that the majority of patients were female (59.6%), married (66.1%), with an average age of 64.96 years, and primary education (50%). The average monthly income was 3,341.11 THB, and 69.1% had comorbidities. The most common health behaviors included eating food prepared by themselves or family members (61.4%), exercising 3-5 times per week (31.6%), prioritizing tasks (54.6%), and taking medication as prescribed (94.7%). The least practiced behaviors were smoking (96.2%), monitoring for abnormal symptoms during exercise (58.2%), using religious teachings to reduce stress (28.1%), and adjusting medication dosage themselves (89.1%). Overall, patients exhibited moderate health behaviors, with good emotional management and medication adherence, moderate dietary consumption, and poor exercise habits. Despite good medication adherence, qualitative data revealed issues such as purchasing medication from online advertisements, forgetting to take medication after meals, incorrect timing of medication intake, and errors in medication preparation. Recommendations include continuous programs to enhance skills in medication adherence, disease-specific dietary habits, and appropriate exercise for patients.