Occupational Health Nursing in Thailand: Insight into International Occupational Health

1. As a country that is both agricultural by nature, and moving toward new industrialization, Thailand is increasingly facing work related health problems. Major occupational illnesses are pesticide poisoning, silicosis, byssinosis, lead poisoning, and occupational injuries. 2. Although the demand for occupational health services is high, occupational health services in Thailand are still not comprehensive. 3. Because of the lack of role perception and inadequate preparation, Thai occupational health nurses have limited functions in providing occupational health services. The services are primarily directed at curative measures rather than prevention. 4. Occupational health nursing in Thailand is currently undergoing intensive development in education, practice, research, and legislation.