A Qualitative Research of the Use of Personal Protective Equipment on the Workers of Metal Manufacturing Industry

Basic metal industry is one of priority industries which includes in upstream industry. The principles of occupational health and safety have to be applied to achieve the optimal productivity. The management of potential hazard and risks needs to be conducted like the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to the workers. This research aims to find out the influencing factors on the use of PPE to the workers of metal manufacturing industry. The research used a qualitative research with a case study design. The data collection was performed by deep interviewing both main and second informants. The data analysis used in this research was interactive data analysis. The research validity applied source and data/analysis triangulation. The research results showed that there were occupational hazard like danger of heat, electricity, sparks, iron powder, iron shavings, and noise; while the workers knowledge of PPE were PPE could reduce risk, avoid work accident, protect the workers, keep their health and safety. Some PPEs used by the workers were glasses, mask, hand protectors, chest protectors, hand gloves and ear plug. To sum up, the knowledge related to occupational hazard and PPE could have some effects on the use of PPE to the workers of metal manufacturing industry. Keyword: personal protective equipment; occupational hazard; electrical hazard; occupational health and safety, metal manufacture