Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Airliners and Baggage Handlers regarding the Use of Permethrin Insecticide on Aircraft

Abstract

Introduction: Jamaica is one of the countries that does ongoing aircraft spraying on arrival. In response to the Ministry of Health Jamaica guidelines, permethrin insecticide will be administered in aircraft disinfection, including cockpit, cabin, and cargo holes. This matter is done in cases where other approved disinfection methods are not done.

Objective: To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of airliners and baggage handlers regarding using permethrin insecticide on aircraft, providing a comprehensive understanding of their perceptions and behaviours in this context.

Methods and materials: This study employed a quantitative cross-sectional correlational survey design. The research sample was randomly selected from airliners and baggage handlers of Norman Manley International Airport. One hundred (100) 184 employees were invited to participate in this study. This type of organisation was conveniently selected due to its availability to the research team; the process included selecting an organisation to which she is employed.

Findings: It revealed that 49 (68.1%) of the respondents in this study were males, while 23 (31.9%) were females. The findings revealed a high level of knowledge of airliners and baggage handlers regarding using permethrin insecticide on aircraft (mean = 11.90; SD 1.59). Similarly, the attitude of airliners and baggage handlers towards using permethrin insecticide on aircraft was high (mean = 4.17; SD 1.74). Additionally, the findings showed that the mean rating of the practice of airliners and baggage handlers towards using permethrin insecticide on aircraft was 2.51; SD= .82, indicating a moderate level of practice towards permethrin use.

Conclusion: Airliners and baggage handlers have a high knowledge and attitude towards using permethrin insecticide on aircraft.