Assessing the risk beliefs of occupational workers during sodium hypochlorite tank cleanings using a quantitative survey instrument

Abstract

Abstract Chemical tank cleaners’ occupational illnesses and deaths are largely unknown due to a lack of monitoring and research; further, there are no federal regulations that govern chemical tank cleanings. This pilot study details the development of a quantitative instrument to assess the risk beliefs of chemical tank cleaners, focusing specifically on tank cleaners who work with sodium hypochlorite. Through research on these occupational chemical workers’ risk beliefs, educators, safety engineers, and policymakers can make informed steps toward improving tank cleaner health and safety. The 18-item Likert type instrument developed in this pilot study was found to be psychometrically sound with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.772, and therefore can be a valuable tool in further studies of tank cleaner beliefs. The instrument, if properly modified, can target risk beliefs of tank cleaners working with a variety of hazardous chemicals, which can illustrate points of concern that should be addressed in developing education, interventions, and a standard federal code for tank cleaning.