Assessment of Occupational Hazards Related Factors among Tobacco Workers

Abstract

Introduction: The occupational health of workers is the most valued social issue in the society and plays an important role in achieving successful human competence. The current descriptive study aimed to assess the factors related to occupational hazards among tobacco workers in Lattakia in Syria. Methods: The data was collected from an available sample that included 283 workers in Al-Raija factory, using a questionnaire that consisted of three parts (demographic and health data, 19 questions about occupational hazards and diseases, 15 questions about factors related to the work environment, 9 questions about factors related to the nature of work, and 10 questions about factors relating to occupational health services for workers). Results: The results showed that more than half of the workers had respiratory and musculoskeletal problems, in addition to fatigue and stress. The factors related to the work environment and occupational health services were at low level, while the factors related to the nature of work were at medium level. Conclusions: The study recommends the periodic examination of workers, expanding the role of the occupational safety department, and paying attention to the provision and commitment of workers to personal protection means.