Assessing Zoonotic Disease Exposure and Occupational Health and Safety Practices Among Veterinary Services Fieldworkers in North West Province, South Africa

TL;DR

This study examines the health risks and safety practices of veterinary workers in South Africa's North West Province, revealing gaps in zoonotic disease knowledge and protective measures.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into zoonotic disease exposure and occupational safety practices among veterinary fieldworkers in an understudied region.

Findings

Fieldworkers often lack consistent access to personal protective equipment and training.

Knowledge of zoonoses like rabies and brucellosis is common, but safety practices vary by occupational category.

There is an urgent need to improve occupational health frameworks and training for these workers.

Abstract

Background: Veterinary fieldworkers play an important role in managing animal and public health risks, yet they face significant occupational hazards, particularly from zoonotic diseases. In South Africa’s North West Province, the occupational health and safety (OHS) of this workforce remains understudied. This study aimed to describe and characterize the OHS practices, zoonotic disease risk exposures, and contributing factors affecting veterinary services fieldworkers in the North West Province. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 137 veterinary fieldworkers, including animal health technicians, state veterinarians, and veterinary public health officers. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire focusing on sociodemographics, knowledge of zoonoses, exposure history, and OHS practices. Descriptive statistics were applied using SPSS version 27. Results: Fieldworkers frequently reported contact with animals, animal waste, and body fluids without consistent access to adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) or comprehensive training. While most were aware of common zoonoses such as rabies and brucellosis, less than half received regular OHS training or vaccinations. Significant associations were found between occupational category and reported PPE use, as well as between knowledge levels and years of experience. Conclusions: This study highlights critical gaps in knowledge of zoonotic disease, inconsistent implementation of safety protocols, and inadequate PPE provision and/or use among veterinary fieldworkers. These findings highlight the urgent need to strengthen occupational health frameworks, standardize training, and improve access to protective resources to safeguard both workers and broader public health.