The Model Development of Health, Occupational Health and Safety Knowledge-Building among Migrant Workers in Health Region 8

Abstract

This action research aimed to develop a knowledge-building model for health, occupational health, and workplace safety among migrant workers in Health Region 8. The sample consisted of 158 migrant workers selected via simple random sampling from nine establishments across three provinces: Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, and Nong Khai. Quota sampling was subsequently applied. The study was conducted over nine months, from January to September 2023, and comprised three phases. First, the Preparation Phase involved reviewing the situation and roles of relevant agencies, publicizing the project, and opening registration for interested business establishments. Second, the Implementation Phase focused on conducting a needs assessment and designing a knowledge-based training program consisting of five modules: 1) COVID-19 and Emerging Infectious Diseases Prevention and Control, 2) Tuberculosis, AIDS, and Sexually Transmitted Diseases Prevention and Control, 3) Control of Tobacco and Alcohol Consumption among Workers, 4) Occupational Risk Assessment, Occupational Health Check, and Safety and Workplace Environment Management, and 5) Workers’ Rights and Relevant Laws. Finally, the Evaluation Phase involved assessing participants’ knowledge before and after the training sessions, collecting feedback from stakeholders, and conducting a lessons-learned review. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation). Inferential statistics were analyzed using paired t-test, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis. The findings revealed that the majority of the sample group was male (75.32%) and of Lao nationality (66.46%), with an average age of 36.68 years (SD = 13.52). The most demanded activity among migrant workers was occupational health check (83.33%). Regarding health issues experienced in the past year, the most common were body aches and musculoskeletal disorders (66.67%). Additional support required by workers included health education materials, condoms, face masks, hand sanitizers, hand wash soap, first-aid kits, and sports equipment. Mean knowledge scores before and after training significantly differed (p < 0.001). The results indicated that the knowledge-building model for health, occupational health, and workplace safety among migrant workers facilitated knowledge exchange and practical application among migrant workers. To further enhance knowledge-building among this group, workplaces should employ interpreters and trainers capable of effectively communicating with migrant workers to ensure mutual understanding and consistent implementation of the practices.