Lead Poisoning in Informal Labor: Development of a Community-Integrated Intervention Model in Khon Kaen, Thailand

Abstract

This study aimed to develop an integrated approach to the prevention and mitigation of lead poisoning among fishing net weight makers in Khon Kaen Province. The research was conducted as an action research project between October 2023 and September 2024. It was implemented in three phases: studying the current situation, jointly developing operational guidelines, and piloting and evaluating the outcomes of the proposed approach. The study population consisted of 89 participants, including fishing net weight makers in Ban Lao Kwian Hak community, Ban Thum Subdistrict, and relevant personnel from governmental agencies in Mueang District, Khon Kaen Province. Research instruments included questionnaires, opinion evaluation forms, and in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including means, standard deviations, and chi-square tests.

The findings revealed that the integrated approach involved a clearly defined operational structure, with specified roles for stakeholders at various levels—health region, province, district, and subdistrict. The activities covered health surveillance, lead poisoning screening, proactive and reactive occupational health services, referral systems, and legal enforcement for home-based workers. Participants’ overall opinions toward the approach were rated highly. The evaluation of implementation showed that satisfaction levels did not significantly differ by gender, age, or educational background. However, prior training on lead hazards, use of personal protective equipment, and satisfaction with quality of life were significantly associated with satisfaction toward the integrated approach (p-value < 0.05). The study recommends that responsible agencies support the development of role models among informal workers who can manage their own occupational health and safety, along with context-appropriate health education programs tailored to the needs of the local community.