Submission ID 118593
| Issue/Objective | Migrant workers experience significantly higher rates of workplace injuries and fatalities compared to non-migrant populations, making occupational health and safety (OHS) training a critical area of focus for global health equity. Ensuring safe work environments for this vulnerable group requires not only the delivery of effective training but also a deeper understanding of the complex factors that influence migrant workers' access to, engagement with, and retention of OHS knowledge. |
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| Methodology/Approach | Given the high proportion of migrant labor in North America, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, construction, and caregiving, we conducted a scoping review to explore the current evidence on barriers and facilitators impacting OHS training outcomes for migrant workers. Our review followed Levac et al.'s enhancement of Arksey and O'Malley's methodological framework. An initial search yielded 1,820 articles, from which 43 met inclusion criteria. The majority of studies were based in the United States (n=29), with the remainder in Canada (n=14). |
| Results | Key findings were categorized by phase (access, use, retention) and by whether factors were internal or external to participants. External barriers to access included limited workplace support and restrictive policies, while internal barriers included immigration status, language proficiency, and individual perceptions of risk. The use of OHS training was affected by external factors such as employer engagement and regulatory oversight, and internal factors such as comprehension, fear of job loss, and self-efficacy. Retention of OHS knowledge was influenced largely by the format and relevance of training content. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | This review highlights the urgent need for culturally and contextually responsive OHS training that addresses these multifaceted challenges. Enhancing OHS education for migrant workers is not only a workplace issue-it is a matter of global health justice. |
| Presenters and affiliations | Manal Alzghoul Brock University(ST CATHARINES) (NoCity@Others) Manal Alzghoul Brock University(ST CATHARINES) (NoCity@Others) Karlie Janes Brock University Jenna O'Neill Brock University |
