Situation of occupational and environmental health among older rice farmers
Keywords:
Older workers, Rice farmers, Occupational and environmental health, Health status related to risks, Working behaviorsAbstract
Entering the era of Thai aging society, it needs to recognize the older workers in the agricultural sectors who are at high risk of experiencing work-related health problems. This descriptive study thus aims to analyze the situation of occupational and environmental health among older rice farmers, health status related to risks and working behaviors. The study sample comprised 330 older workers residing in Mae Khao Tom Sub-district, Mueang District, Chiang Rai Province. Data were collected using an interview questionnaire with acceptable reliability, with a KR-20 coefficient of .94 and Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of .75, .73, and .83, respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The main results revealed that the significant workplace hazards were physical hazards including working in the hot weather and bright sunlight 96.36-96.97%; ergonomic hazards including awkward postures, repetitive motions and prolonged sitting/standing 86.97-94.55% and biological hazards which were working in waterlogged/ muddy areas 87.88%. Regarding unsafe working conditions, these included working with sharp tools 95.76% and working in wet, slippery areas 86.97%. Concerning health status related to risks, it was found that work-related illnesses included body aches and pains 72.73%, and blurred vision or eye strain 33.94%, while work-related injuries were found only 13.03%, which were minor injuries. With regard to working behaviors, the study sample used personal protective equipment 93.33-95.45% and adhered to safe work practices 80.00-97.58%. The study results highlight the crucial role of occupational health nurses in communicating work-related to risks, health protection, and the development of strategies for managing musculoskeletal pain to promote a sustainable quality of life among older agricultural workers.
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