Determinants of Occupational Safety and Health Among the Workers in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand states of India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Prevention of  workplace accidents and promoting a safe working environment, is critical for the safety of workers in  Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Factors such as education, socio-economic background, experience and training may affect the awareness levels among the workers. This study investigates the awareness of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) among the employees working in different sectors in MSMEs across Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand and 600 workers from various MSMEs were selected using the multiway stratification technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, which assessed socio-economic and demographic characteristics, awareness regarding OSH training and policies and their effectiveness. Statistical tools such as mean, variance, chi-square tests, t-tests, and logistic regression were used to analyse the data. Results: The study found that 75% participants were aware of the OSH policies of their companies, 65% had received required OSH training, and 70% of them found the training as useful. It was found that the educational levels, socio-economic background and length of service were significantly associated with OSH awareness. Multivariate logistic regression confirmed that tenure, educational level, and prior training exerted independent positive effects on awareness. Conclusions: The study highlighted the role of education, socio-economic background, length of service, and training in enhancing OSH awareness among MSME workers and suggested that even the small efforts and interventions, like regular training programs and policy formation can make significant improvements in OSH practices.