Risk perception of work-related burn injuries from the workers perspective

Abstract

This is a qualitative study with the aim to understand the perspective of workers about the risk of work-related burn injuries. The content obtained through semi-structured interviews was submitted to content analysis, guided by the Neuman Systems Model. Participants were six workers who suffered burns and were treated at a specialized center in southern Brazil. Intrapersonal stressors were: male gender, young adults, and Caucasians; previous accidents and denial of risks in handling the instruments. The intense pace of activities, excessive workload, stress, and submission to the determinations of managers, on the other hand, emerged as interpersonal stressors. As extrapersonal stressors, precarious employment status, risks inherent in the tasks, old equipment, and handling instruments before the accident were mentioned. More research and follow-up by health professionals are necessary in order to prevent future accidents at work.