Chemical Using Behaviors and Health Problems among Mango Wood Handicraft Workers-พฤติกรรมการใช้สารเคมีและปัญหาสุขภาพ ในผู้ประกอบอาชีพหัตถกรรมไม้มะม่วง

บทคัดย่อ

         The objectives of this descriptive study were to investigate chemical using behaviors and health problems among mango wood handicraft workers informal sector.  The study sample comprised 324 mango wood handicraft workers in the painting process, at Huay Sai subdistrict, Sankamphang district, Chiang Mai province.  Data collection was conducted using an interview form.  Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics.  On chemical using behaviors; most of the samples had a high level of the total chemical using behavior attributed by the components, of storage, handling, choosing chemical substances, proper working environment, personal hygiene and application technique.  Yet, the behaviors on disposal waste and personal protective equipment were at a moderate level and low level respectively.  Health problems relating to the use of chemicals among mango wood handicraft workers, reported at the highest rate, were headaches and dizziness; runny eyes; coughing; skin itching; and, nausea.  It is suggested that relevant health organization or personnel should be aware of safety work, and disseminate information on safety in the chemical using, particularly, choosing proper personal protective equipment and waste disposal.  In addition, health risk surveillance among mango wood handicraft workers should be systematically and continuously conducted.

Key words:      chemical using behaviors, health problems, mango wood handicraft