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Evaluation of a pilot promotora program for Latino forest workers in southern Oregon
Author(s) -
Bush Diane E.,
Wilmsen Carl,
Sasaki Timothy,
BartonAntonio Dinorah,
Steege Andrea L.,
Chang Charlotte
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
american journal of industrial medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.7
H-Index - 104
eISSN - 1097-0274
pISSN - 0271-3586
DOI - 10.1002/ajim.22347
Subject(s) - medicine , gerontology , environmental health
Background Forest work, an occupation with some of the highest injury and illness rates, is conducted primarily by Latino immigrant workers. This study evaluates a pilot program where promotoras (lay community health educators) provided occupational health and safety trainings for Latino forest workers. Methods Evaluation methods included a focus group, post‐tests, and qualitative feedback. Results Community capacity to address working conditions increased through (i) increased leadership and community access to information and resources; and (ii) increased worker awareness of workplace health and safety rights and resources. Fear of retaliation remains a barrier to workers taking action; nevertheless, the promotoras supported several workers in addressing‐specific workplace issues. Conclusions For working conditions to significantly improve, major structural influences need to be addressed. A long‐term, organizationally supported promotora program can play a key role in linking and supporting change at the individual, interpersonal and community levels, contributing to and supporting structural change. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:788–799, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.