Occupational health and safety in technology and design workshop: Bingöl example

This research evaluated the current status of occupational health and safety (OHS) practices in technology and design workshops in Bingöl province, identified deficiencies and made recommendations to eliminate these deficiencies. The universe of the research consisted of technology and design workshops in secondary schools located in Bingöl city center. A mixed-methods approach was employed in the research. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires, while qualitative data were obtained through observation and document analysis methods. Quantitative data were analyzed using İstatistikal methods such as frequency, percentage distributions, mean, standard deviation, and Chi-square test. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis, and risk assessment was performed using the matrix method. The data collection group included teachers, students and school administrators working in these workshops. Observation forms and questionnaires were used as data collection tools. Observation forms were filled out during observations conducted in technology and design workshops to assess the current OHS status of the workshops. Two different questionnaires were developed for students and teachers, respectively, to measure their awareness of OHS. The reliability of the questionnaires was tested with Cronbach's Alpha analysis and high reliability values were obtained (0.903 for students, 0.912 for teachers and 0.814 for administrators). The findings of the research indicated that there are various deficiencies in terms of occupational health and safety in the technology and design workshops in Bingöl. Although students and teachers are generally aware of the serious injuries and damages that can occur if OHS rules are not followed, the existing safety measures in the workshops are insufficient. The questionnaire results highlighted the necessity of OHS training and awareness-raising measures. Additionally, it was found that the current OHS training contents are perceived as inadequate and more comprehensive training is needed. These findings suggest that OHS standards in technology and design workshops need to be raised, regular training should be provided, and necessary safety measures should be implemented. Keywords: Technology, Desing, Occupational, Health and Safety, Work Accidents.