Date of Publication

7-2005

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Health Social Science

Subject Categories

Medicine and Health Sciences

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department/Unit

Behavioral Sciences

Thesis Adviser

Cristina A. Rodriguez

Defense Panel Chair

Exaltacion E. Lamberte

Defense Panel Member

Jesusa M. Marco
Ma. Elena Chiong Javier

Abstract/Summary

This descriptive study looks into the types of occupational health hazards experienced among pineapple field workers in an agricultural company in the province of Bukidnon. It also examines whether these workers know the causes and prevention of the said hazards. The company's safety measures are also queried at the same time how workers comply these. It identifies what work-related conditions facilitate the occurrence of these hazards and how workers managed them. Fifty male pineapple field workers were interviewed in this quantitative study using a semi-structured interview schedule. In this study, three types of workers were identified. They were the planters, harvesters and seed collectors. Results show that workers understand the meaning of occupational hazards and associated it with the use of pesticides and chemicals. Their sources of understanding most come from their co-workers. Comparing the perceived and actual health hazards that were experienced, the findings were quite similar except that travel accidents in going to the area and accidents caused by machinery were not experienced. Most of the workers experienced pneumonia due to sun exposure during the whole day and being caught in the rain. Exposure to chemicals and pesticides is also mentioned but is found to be non-threatening because its effects are not yet evident. Workers are familiar with the company measures but only for the wearing of protective gears. The wearing of protective gears is reported to be the best way to prevent from health hazards. Work-related conditions may also facilitate the occurrence of these health hazards. However, no illnesses were reported yet. Provision of health benefit packages is not true to all because most are contractual workers. They prefer to self-medicate because effects of hazards especially with that of pesticide and chemical exposure were not yet felt. This resulted to low medical utilization. For those who seek help, most workers prefer public practitioners due to its accessibility and low fees.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Accession Number

CDTG003949; TG03949

Shelf Location

Archives, The Learning Commons, 12F Henry Sy Sr. Hall

Physical Description

x, 132 leaves

Keywords

Industrial safety; Occupational health services; Medical care; Agricultural laborers; Employee health promotion

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