The most common work accidents and occupational diseases in the health sector: Ağrı province review

This study aims to analyze the types, causes, and consequences of occupational accidents in healthcare institutions in Ağrı province. Designed as a retrospective study, the research covers occupational accidents recorded in state hospitals across Ağrı and its districts between 2020-2024. A quantitative methodology was employed, with data collected through document analysis of Social Security Institution (SGK) accident reports, hospital records, and Ministry of Labor statistics. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Findings reveal 307 reported occupational accidents during the three-year period. Healthcare personnel accounted for 69% of cases, while drivers constituted 31%. The most frequent accident types were traffic/transportation-related incidents (91%) and sharps injuries (72.8%). Primary causes included excessive speed (23.5%), lack of personal protective equipment (11.1%), and inadequate warning signs (8.6%). Notably, 95.1% of affected workers resumed duties without lost work time. The study highlights necessary preventive measures, particularly for emergency services and patient transport. Results demonstrate that regular safety training, mandatory PPE use, and improved in-hospital traffic regulations could significantly reduce accidents. These findings provide guidance for healthcare institutions in similar regions.