Authors: Ashwag Osman , Raneem Hamed Mohamed Khir , Abdullah Abdulaziz Alfaisal , Abdulrhman Ali Aldamkh , Fahad Almuzaini , Arwa Alhajji , Omar Alasiri

Abstract

Background: Exposure to high temperatures for long periods, combined with strenuous physical activity, can cause the body to overheat. Outdoor workers are more prone to heat-related illness (HRI); consequently, they are more prone to morbidity and mortality if they do not adopt protective measures. Effective preventive measures involve preventing HRI and improving the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of the workers to reduce their vulnerability to HRI. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude, practice, and preparedness of outdoor workers regarding HRI prevention.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study that was conducted at the outpatient clinics of National Medical Care between the period from-----to------- on outdoor workers. The study was conducted using a questionnaire to collect data from the participants. The survey investigated knowledge, attitude, practice, preparedness, and barriers.

Results: A total of 170 workers were recruited; the mean±SD score of knowledge, attitude, and preparedness was 6.1±3.2, 12.9±2.8, and 16±2.5, respectively, whereas 61.2% had good practice. There were 52.4% and 27.6% diagnosed with heat stroke and exhaustion, respectively. There was a significant negative correlation between practice and attitude (r=-0.6, P˂0.001) and a positive correlation between knowledge and attitude (r=0.284, P˂0.001).

Conclusion: There was acceptable knowledge, low attitude, good practice, and preparedness of outdoor workers regarding HRI prevention. Additionally, there were a few barriers that can be overcome through good preparedness of the working environment.

Keywords: Knowledge, outdoor workers, prevention, heat-related illness.