Citation

Bush DE, Wilmsen C, Sasaki T, Barton-Antonio D, Steege AL, Chang C. Am. J. Ind. Med. 2014; 57(7): 788-799.

Affiliation

Labor Occupational Health Program, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1002/ajim.22347

PMID

24890853

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Forest work, an occupation with some of the highest injury and illness rates, is conducted primarily by Latino immigrant workers. This study evaluates a pilot program where promotoras (lay community health educators) provided occupational health and safety trainings for Latino forest workers.

METHODS: Evaluation methods included a focus group, post-tests, and qualitative feedback.

RESULTS: Community capacity to address working conditions increased through (i) increased leadership and community access to information and resources; and (ii) increased worker awareness of workplace health and safety rights and resources. Fear of retaliation remains a barrier to workers taking action; nevertheless, the promotoras supported several workers in addressing-specific workplace issues.

CONCLUSIONS: For working conditions to significantly improve, major structural influences need to be addressed. A long-term, organizationally supported promotora program can play a key role in linking and supporting change at the individual, interpersonal and community levels, contributing to and supporting structural change. Am. J. Ind. Med. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Language: en