OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AWARENESS AND WORK ACCIDENTS AMONG AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION WORKERS IN TÜRKİYE

Abstract

The agricultural sector is widely recognized as one of the most hazardous industries due to the high incidence of occupational accidents and work-related illnesses. This study was conducted within the context of Türkiye, and the findings reflect the national conditions of the agricultural sector in the country. This study aims to assess the occupational health and safety (OHS) awareness levels of agricultural production workers, including farmers and laborers, and to examine the relationship between this awareness and experiences of workplace accidents. Following ethics committee approval, data were collected from 390 voluntary participants across different regions of Türkiye using a structured questionnaire. While the minimum required sample size was calculated as 384, a slightly larger sample was used to increase statistical reliability. The population size was determined based on 2024 data from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TURKSTAT). The questionnaire included multiple-choice and Likert-scale items covering demographics, OHS awareness, safety practices, and accident history. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS, employing descriptive statistics, independent samples ttests, chi-square tests, and correlation analysis. The findings revealed that although most participants considered themselves knowledgeable about OHS, gaps remained in personal protective equipment use and training participation. Statistically significant relationships were found between education level, safety awareness, and accident frequency. Seasonal workers were identified as having particularly limited access to OHS services. This study emphasizes the urgent need for more inclusive safety training, stronger enforcement of safety standards, and the development of targeted policies in the agricultural sector. The results also contribute to the broader goal of improving working conditions in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those addressing health, decent work, innovation, and sustainable production.