Ali Hadi Waheed, MScN
Clinical Nurse Specialist, Al-Qadysia Health Directorate, Ministry of Health
Wissam Jabar Qassim, PhD
Professor, Community Health Nursing Department, College of Nursing, University of Baghdad, Iraq
ABSTRACT
Background: Occupational hazards in oil refineries pose significant health and safety risks to workers, necessitating proper awareness and adherence to preventive measures. Assessing workers’ performance in handling occupational hazards is essential for improving workplace safety and minimizing occupational health risks. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate workers’ performance regarding occupational hazard management at Al-Shinafia Oil Refinery in Al-Diwaniyah Directorate. Methods: A descriptive, observational study was conducted to assess occupational safety practices among refinery workers. A purposive sample of 40 workers was selected, and their performance was evaluated using a structured observational checklist consisting of 10 items. The study instrument underwent validity and reliability testing. Data collection was carried out through direct observation, and statistical analyses included both descriptive and inferential methods to identify associations between worker performance and demographic variables. Results: The findings revealed that the overall performance of workers in managing occupational hazards was inadequate. Significant associations were observed between workers’ performance and their age, years of experience, and level of education (p < 0.001). However, no significant correlation was found between workers’ performance and gender (p > 0.001). Conclusion: The study concludes that the overall occupational safety performance of refinery workers is suboptimal, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to enhance workplace safety practices. Recommendations: The study recommends implementing regular occupational safety training programs and educational workshops to improve workers’ knowledge and adherence to safety protocols. Additionally, further research with a larger sample size and across multiple settings is encouraged to gain a more comprehensive understanding of occupational hazard management in oil refineries.
Keywords: Evaluation, Workers’ Performance, Occupational Hazards, Oil Refinery.
