FACTORS AFFECTING PRE-SERVICE SCIENCE TEACHERS’ LEVEL OF AWARENESS ON SAFETY, HEALTH MEASURES AND RISK MANAGEMENT DURING SCIENCE LABORATORY PRACTICAL

Abstract

Science laboratory practical work is part of the secondary school curriculum. However, it is
critical that the pre-service science teacher is provided with knowledge, skills and competencies
that allows teachers to have the requisite level of awareness on safety, health measures, and to be
able to manage risks, associated with science laboratory practical work. This study aimed to
determine pre-service secondary school science teachers’ level of awareness on safety and health
measures and the resultant risk management application in science practical work based on
selected variables. The study design includes descriptive and cross-sectional survey methods. A
sample of 84 pre-service science teachers picked using random sampling responded to a study
questionnaire. Results showed that 58% of respondents were formally trained on safety and
health measures and the Friedman test showed statistical differences in respondents’ rankings
depending on sources of safety information used. The results also showed medium levels of
awareness on safety and health measures (44.60%); general laboratory practices (39.80%);
practical risk management (50%) respectively. The results of t- test showed significant difference
based on training. A positive low to medium correlation found between awareness on safety
health measures and risk management. The study recommends the inclusion of safety and health
module in the training of secondary school science teachers.