Safety Practices and Level of Satisfaction among Small-Scale Miners in Itogon, Benguet, Philippines

Occupational safety remains a major concern among small-scale miners due to their continuous exposure to workplace hazards that threaten their health, safety, and overall well-being. This study determined the safety practices and level of satisfaction among small-scale miners in Itogon, Benguet, Philippines, and examined the significant differences and relationship between these variables. A quantitative descriptive-correlational research design was employed involving 150 active small-scale miners selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-made, expert-validated questionnaire with established reliability. Descriptive statistics, weighted mean, standard deviation, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient were utilized to analyze the data at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that the respondents consistently practiced occupational safety measures in terms of sanitation, ventilation, safety guidelines, and emergency preparedness. Likewise, they were highly satisfied with themselves, their families, and their communities. Educational attainment and years of mining experience significantly influenced both safety practices and level of satisfaction, whereas age, civil status, and average monthly income did not show significant differences. Furthermore, a statistically significant moderate positive relationship was found between the overall level of safety practices and the overall level of satisfaction (r = 0.648, p < .001), indicating that improved safety practices were associated with higher levels of satisfaction among the respondents. The study concludes that strengthening occupational safety through continuous education, competency development, and workplace health promotion enhances both worker safety and overall well-being. An evidence-based occupational health intervention program is recommended to sustain safe mining practices and improve the quality of life of small-scale miners in Itogon, Benguet.