IJCM_314A: Risk perceptions of heat related illnesses, assessing vulnerability and adaptive capacity of brick- kiln workers in a rural Puducherry: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Heat is one of the physical hazards that can cause health problems in the workplace, Brick field workers are widely exposed to risk factors for heat-related illnesses. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) are three of the most important means of preventing such illnesses. Objectives: To determine the predictors of risk perception and to assess the vulnerability and adaptive capacity regarding heat-related illness among brick field workers in Rural Puducherry. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to June (2023). A total of 280 Brickfield workers were recruited from five rural commune areas of Puducherry, using the Multistage random sampling method. The data was collected on demographic characteristics, risk perception and spontaneous adaptation behaviours through KAP scores using structured questionnaires. Chi-square tests, correlation matrix and Linear Multiple regression models were employed to analyze the data. Results: 15.4% of the subjects suffered from HRIs, and 68.2% never received health education about HRIs. The mean for knowledge (K-score) was 13.5 (SD = 6.008) for attitudes (A-score) 4.21 (SD = 2.167) for practices (P-score) 4.23 (SD = 1.988). There were noticeable differences in KAP-score with respect to educational level (P < 0.05), income level (P < 0.05) and work relevant experience (P < 0.05). Eventually, higher educational achievements, higher income status and relevant years of work experience were positive predictors for higher risk perception. Conclusion: There is a large room for improving health risk perception and adaptation capacity to heat waves among the brickfield workers. It will be very important to develop health educational programmes and enrich systematic educational resources to raise awareness