Development and validation of two awareness and current status assessment questionnaires for the hazardous chemically-exposed staffs though Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS)

Introduction: Changing the national System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals to Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) is beneficial for all the industries of the countries, their workers and the general public. Increasing the awareness of chemical hazards, improving the safety uses, reducing chemical accidents, and providing better conditions for emergency response in the event of chemical accidents, are some of the most important benefits of the GHS. Present study aimed to develop a tool for assessing the awareness level of chemical related personnel using the GHS and current status. Material and Methods: By reviewing the literatures, the GHS Guide, available sources and consultation with experts, two questionnaires were developed to assess the level of awareness of chemical related personnel and current statue. The two designed questionnaires included personal information, multiple choice questions and questions related to safety signs. The face and content validity was conducted using the experts’ panel assessment. The face validity, content validity ratio (CVR) and content validity index (CVI) were all calculated for each question. Results: Content Validity Ratios (CVR) and Content Validity Index (CVI) were calculated for each question. The general clarity, general fit and general simplicity of the awareness questionnaire (questionnaire number 1) were obtained 0.87, 0.91 and 0.77, respectively. The mean content validity index and the mean content validity ratio were obtained 0.85, 0.85, respectively. The overall clarity, overall fit, and the general simplicity of the current status questionnaire (questionnaire number 2) was 0.92, 0.89 and 0.93, respectively. The mean content validity index and mean content validity ratio were obtained 0.92 and 0.81, respectively. Conclusion: The two questionnaires used to assess the awareness level of chemical related personnel and current statue of GHS, were identified as valid instruments and therefore is recommended as a valid tool for future studies