ASSESSMENT OF OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS AMONG DENTAL PROFESSIONALS

Abstract

Occupational hazards refers to a risk or danger experienced in the work place. Dentistry is considered to be a profession with a demanding nature. There are risks which pose a serious threat to the dental professionals. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of occupational hazards among dental professionals in KPK.  

This study was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out at Sardar Begum Dental college and Hospital Peshawar, Saidu group of Teaching Hospital Swat, Bacha Khan Dental college and Hospital Mardan and District Head Quarter Hospital Mardan. The research spanned six months and involved 384 participants. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire, after obtaining written informed consent from participants who satisfied the inclusion criteria. In the study, out of 384 dental professionals 76% were dentists,  10.4% technologists and 13.5% were technicians. Among them 51% were female participants and 49% were male participants. Biological hazards, such as saliva (as a source of cross-transmission of diseases), were the most prevalent i.e. 83.3% among occupational hazards followed by psychological hazards i.e. extended working hours 75.8%. 72.7% of the participants use proper PPEs. Majority of the participants (61.7%) were unaware of the term technostress.

It was concluded from the study that awareness regarding these occupational hazards and implementation of preventive strategies can provide a safe working environment for all the dental personnel. There is also a need for continuing dental education programs in dentistry so that dentists can update themselves with the latest and newer techniques and materials.