تقييم صحة وسلامة البيئة البيولوجية والكيميائية بين العاملين في مجال الرعاية الصحية في مراكز الرعاية الصحية الأولية

Abstract

Background: Primary healthcare centers (PHCs) form the cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s healthcare delivery system, providing essential services in alignment with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 health transformation goals. Despite improvements in healthcare quality and environmental safety, PHCs continue to face challenges related to biological and chemical hazards that threaten healthcare workers’ (HCWs) safety and efficiency. Aim: This study aimed to assess the health and safety of biological and chemical environments among HCWs in PHCs. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional design was utilized among 326 HCWs from seven PHCs in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Participants were selected through convenience sampling. Four structured tools were used: two self-administered questionnaires assessing demographic and occupational characteristics and knowledge of biological and chemical safety; a self-reported compliance checklist; and an audit checklist evaluating environmental safety conditions. Data were collected from November 2024 to January 2025. Results: The mean age of the HCWs was 38.25 years; 56.7% of them were females, 59.2% nurses, with an average work experience of 11.06 years. The majority demonstrated good knowledge of biological (mean = 2.69–2.92) and chemical hazards (mean = 2.42–2.84), though 34% exhibited only fair total knowledge. Compliance with biological and chemical safety practices was remarkably high (above 92% and 95%, respectively). PHCs showed generally adequate safety conditions, with moderate adequacy in emergency preparedness and workspace organization. Conclusion and Recommendations: Most HCWs exhibited good knowledge and high compliance with safety protocols. Continuous training and targeted educational programs in areas such as chemical handling and waste disposal are recommended to sustain and enhance safety practices in PHCs.