The influence of occupation upon perceptions of environmental hazards among differentially risk-exposed vocational groups

This study examined variation in attitudes toward environmental hazards among persons who work in occupations which expose them to a variety of workplace dangers resulting from modern technology. Workplace exposure to contaminants may be a major factor influencing attitudes and beliefs, not only those related to one's occupation, but for other technological hazards generally. One important variable that may contribute to shared opinions or biases is group identification through one's occupation. To assess the contribution of the workplace as a source of bias, in-depth case studies were prepared for two groups known to be at risk of exposure to technological hazards. One group, represented by firefighters, risks exposure to a wide variety of toxic chemicals from fumes and smoke while fighting fires. Radiation protection specialists who worked in a nuclear power facility, and who considered themselves to be experts in the field of radiation hazards, were also investigated. Case studies were used to provide a closer look at groups exposed to toxic chemical and radiation hazards in an attempt to gain a better understanding of how the subtle effects of workplace identity assist in the formulation of opinions elsewhere.; Radiation protection specialists and firefighters were then compared with a group of insurance agents who represented low perceived risk of exposure to workplace hazards to determine whether significant differences among groups could be observed statistically. The results of this investigation indicate that biases in perception based on representativeness, availability and use of information exist among groups studied. By considering the context through which workers develop their attitudes and beliefs concerning risk, a better awareness of how to address generalized public concern may be developed.