In terms of the work practice improvement, our results show
that the post-test average scores of the participants improved
across all groups after going through the participatory
process and these scores were significantly higher than the
pre-test average scores. It is possible that the participatory
approach helped the workers to see examples of the best
practices relating to their fields. The participatory process
allowed the workers to clearly understand their work related
problems and to find solutions by using local wisdom. The best
practices of other informal sector workers were shared during
the discussion groups to make the process easier to
understand. This exchange of real life experiences helped the
groups in different sectors learn quickly. This outcome is similar
to a study by Kawakami which indicated that the exchange of
learning experience among groups helps informal sector
workers clearly see examples of improvement.P
7
In terms of working conditions, the results show that the
working conditions of the groups improved to reach
governmental standards. A working condition improvement
process using the WISE technique was implemented in the
study. The WISE technique uses participatory methods to find
practical and feasible improvements. Krungkraiwong at al.
argue that the WISE technique can effectively reduce the risks
of informal-sector workers and small-scale enterprises.P
17P Also, Kogi in his study, “Work Improvement and OSH Management
Systems,” claims that the WISE technique is a methodology
that can be used to find low-cost improvements.P
18P Use of the
WISE technique has resulted in a reduction of occupational
hazards. Informal-sector workers can determine suitable
solutions according to their local ways of living.