Rachael DeSouza

Abstract:

Latino day laborers experience high rates of work-related injuries and are a hard to reach group for safety interventions. This study describes the creation and implementation of safety training that uses empowerment techniques and its evaluation to address three levels in empowerment’s hierarchy of change. Pictographic pre- and post-tests were used to assess knowledge level changes. Individual and large group interviews were conducted to address attitudes and behavior level changes. Results indicate that day laborers learn and apply lessons from this type of safety training. Findings also offer insight into challenges that day laborers encounter when trying to work safely as well as ideas for future training interventions.