Abstract
Working environments have a huge impact on the worker’s health and safety, and work environment in the mining sector is considered one of the high-risk areas. The use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a universal and legal requirement meant to protect workers against occupational injuries and illnesses in their workplace. The study's main objective was to assess the level of PPE use among the mine sector workers in South Africa. METHODOLOGY A cross-sectional study was conducted among 420 workers from one of the selected mines in South Africa who use PPE in their working sections. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires with closed-ended questions. Data analysis was conducted using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software version 25. Adjusted odds ratios and crude odds ratios were conducted to assess the study variables' associations' strengths. RESULTS Workers having tertiary education were less likely to use PPE, and those with matric were more likely to use PPE, COR 0.32; 95% CI (0.17-0.63) and COR 2.10; CI % (1.03-4.12). Workers who have been working in the mining sector for 16-20 years were less likely to use PPE, COR 0.49; 95% CI (0.25-0.94). The group of general workers and operators was less likely to use PPE when needed, COR 0.49; 95%CI (0.27-0.88). Workers were more likely to disagree that they are at risk of getting an injury or exposed o harmful substances that cause illness through their work, COR 1.96; 95%CI (1.16-3.29). CONCLUSION A negative attitude towards using PPE and a low level of practice was evident amongst the respondents. Poor compliance to the use of PPE at the workplace may result in occupational injuries and illnesses. There is a need for continuous training on PPE uses to prevent occupational injuries and illnesses. KEYWORDS Personal protective equipment, occupational injuries and illnesses, knowledge, attitude and practices.
M.A. (Public Health)