Knowledge, attitude and practices regarding personal protective equipment amongst Stevens Lumber Mills empolyees in the Capricorn District of Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to establish whether PPE were used effectively, and to determine the knowledge about, attitude towards and practices of PPE by SLM employees. A quantitative research study was conducted using a questionnaire to gather data from employees who were working in a production area and who were exposed to possible occupational injuries and diseases. Two hundred and six employees responded to the questionnaire. The findings revealed that employees demonstrated inadequate knowledge about PPE and compliance while using PPE was not satisfactory. Conclusion There was an inappropriate response to the majority of the questions which indicated that the respondents had little understanding of PPE. They also demonstrated a negative attitude, and non-use of PPE. Key words: knowledge, attitude, practice, personal protective equipment