Exploring the dynamics of safety culture: analyzing attitudes, practices, and perceptions among chemical laboratory employees in Sri Lanka.

Abstract

This study explores the safety culture among chemical laboratory workers in Sri Lanka's academic, industrial, and government sectors, examining how attitudes, practices, and perceptions influence safety practices, mitigate risks, and promote worker well-being. A cross-sectional survey of 267 laboratory workers was conducted between March 14 and July 14, 2024, using the Laboratory Safety Culture Survey. Data analysis involved t-tests, ANOVA, Tukey's post hoc tests, and chi-square tests to evaluate differences in safety culture components and participant characteristics. The findings revealed significant variations in safety attitudes and practices across the three sectors. Industrial laboratories exhibited stronger safety practices, including higher compliance with personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols, while academic and government sectors faced challenges due to limited resources and inconsistent safety practices. The study highlighted the need for sector-specific safety training, effective risk communication, and enhanced adherence to safety protocols, particularly in academic and government settings. Additionally, the importance of leadership in fostering a strong safety culture was emphasized, with active involvement from principal investigators and supervisors contributing to better safety outcomes. The results suggest that tailored interventions, adequate resource allocation, and increased leadership engagement are crucial for improving safety practices and sustaining a culture of safety across laboratories.