Occupational hazards and mitigating measures among healthcare workers in Shinyanga Regional Referral Hospital, Tanzania

Abstract

This study sought to identify occupational hazards and mitigating measures among Healthcare Workers in Shinyanga Regional Referral Hospital. The objective of the study was to assess risks associated with occupational health, identify factors (causes) of occupational health hazards among HCWs, and build the capacity of healthcare workers on measures to mitigate health hazards in their workplace. The study engaged 105 HCWs all from Shinyanga regional hospital. The study project imparted knowledge through lectures, discussions, questions and answers, and one-on-one consultations. Data were gathered through questionnaires and observation. The project’s data were analyzed about planned target objectives. All data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics comprising frequencies and percentages. This was done to examine participants’ knowledge of occupational health hazards and mitigating measures. The study found that HCWs in Shinyanga are at higher risk of being exposed to health risk factors due to insufficient and uneven provision of personal protective equipment. In addition, poor hospital waste management and disposal might accelerate needle-stick injuries by that Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV to mention a few are spread from patients to HCWs. Moreover, the reporting on OHHs and new infections was too low. HCWs are the potential for national development and are well educated but not protected to play their roles effectively to constitute national economic development. Some HWCs including health facility in-charge, heads of departments, and specialists are more exposed to health risk factors than others due to overworking. Besides, the study found that the knowledge of HCWs on health risk factors is too low. This calls for external health development stakeholders to intervene in improving safety, health, and well-being.