Trends in occupational health and safety of veterinary practices in the Netherlands A study of the work environment and working conditions

Abstract

The work environment of veterinary practices in the Netherlands, regarding occupational risks, was studied in the period of 2002 until 2012. The aim of this study is to find whether there is a trend in the occupational health and safety of veterinary practices over the years 2002 - 2012. In addition a trend in relation to the practice type and practice size has been analysed. Approximate one hundred risk assessment analyses have been carried out by veterinary students of Utrecht University. These studies are used for this analysis. Reports of these risks assessments were available and coded for subsequent statistical analyses. The prevalence of requirements met stated in the risk assessment reports were analyzed by use of percentage calculations and use of a generalized linear model. Of the eleven variables stated in the risks assessment only one showed a significant (P<0,01) improvement over time: radiation. Many variables, biological agents and hygiene in particular, showed a trend towards improvement, but non-significant. The variable working hours showed a significant difference in practice type (P=0,02); mixed practices had the lowest odds (OR=0,13 and 95% CI = 0,02-1,04) for not meeting requirements. Small sized practices had significantly the worst conditions regarding occupational health (P=0,05), it had the highest odds (OR = 4,15 and 95% CI 0,97-17,77) for not meeting requirements. Further, no variables showed any significant trend. Counter intuitively, in an eleven year time period, overall no improvements in occupational health and safety in veterinary practices have been found. This study has shown that the working conditions of the veterinary profession are still a serious problem in the Netherlands.