Abstract
This paper describes an outcomes index for workers based on a participatory approach to improving the workplace environment. Data were collected by semi-structured interviews of 14 workers, and their experiences were assessed by qualitative descriptive study analysis. The following five categories were extracted from the data about the outcomes that workers wanted: promoting awareness about occupational safety and health, increasing chances to act voluntarily, understanding the participatory approach, building attachment to the workplace through effective bonds between workers, and enhancing a sense of achievement and confidence based on the outcomes. Additional five categories were extracted about the outcomes that the facilitators of the index wanted: improving safety and health-risk sensitivity, gaining better-than-expected results, building relationships with workers, developing self-confidence, and knowing practical ways and strategies to ensure full participation. Finally, the following four categories were extracted as ideal outcomes related to workplace organizational issues: positive change in the workplace atmosphere, promoting mutual understanding and communication and increasing cases of workplace environment improvement at the workplace. These findings show the need to promote awareness and action about improving the workplace environment in a comprehensive manner. They also demonstrate the importance of constructing good relationships among participants striving for an improved workplace environment using a participatory approach.
