Field Survey Reveals Notable Gaps in Understanding of Work-Related Accidents and Occupational Diseases among Future Technicians
A field survey conducted by the Institute of Health and Safety at Work (ISST) in collaboration with the Sectoral Training Center in Mechatronics of Borj Cedria (Ben Arous) highlights significant shortcomings in the understanding of work-related accidents and occupational diseases among future technicians in the sector.
According to the results published in the ISST's October 2025 review, 57% of respondents consider work-related accidents as events that only cause physical harm, while 65% define occupational diseases as illnesses caused by work, without knowing, for the majority, that they must be listed in an official list. Only 29% of the sample mastered this regulatory criterion.
The survey, conducted among 65 male trainees, mostly young, enrolled at the Borj Cedria center, aimed to assess their level of knowledge of occupational risks and prevention measures. The questionnaire, composed of 34 items, also allowed for an assessment of their understanding of legal obligations.
The results show that 77% of respondents know that the employer is required to protect workers, and 82% that they must be insured against work-related accidents and occupational diseases. However, confusion persists regarding administrative procedures: 48% believe that accident reports must be made to insurance companies, while only 35% are aware of the 2004 reform that entrusted this mission to the CNAM.
Regarding access to information, 60% claim to inform themselves through training programs, while others do so through the internet or general knowledge.
Despite these legal gaps, trainees show a good perception of the dangers related to their field: 89% estimate that mechanical workshops present significant risks (electrical, chemical, fire, etc.), even if some other risks remain insufficiently identified.
The study's authors recall that there are no national statistics on work-related accidents in the automotive mechanics sector in Tunisia, which is crucial for the economy and services. They recommend strengthening the safety culture in training centers through more interactive and practice-based awareness programs.
According to the institution, the Sectoral Training Center in Mechatronics of Borj Cedria has trained 1,012 graduates between 2020 and 2025, confirming its central role in preparing technical skills adapted to the labor market.
