Age-related dynamics of occupational health literacy: A Study on forest industry employees in Kahramanmaraş

This study aims to evaluate the occupational health literacy (OHL) levels of employees in forest industry enterprises in Kahramanmaraş, Türkiye, with a focus on the "Accessing" dimension across different age groups. A cross-sectional survey was conducted via face-to-face interviews with 95 employees (85 male, 10 female). The participants were categorized into five age cohorts. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Fisher-Freeman-Halton Exact Test to determine the relationship between age and OHL competencies. Statistical analysis revealed significant generational differences in OHS information-seeking behaviors (p<0.001). While younger workers (≤30) demonstrated high proficiency in digital and independent information access, they reported significant difficulties in navigating formal health services and insurance protocols. In contrast, older workers (50+) within this sample showed a high descriptive preference toward interpersonal communication channels, while middle-aged workers (41–50) primarily selected neutral responses regarding their social security information access. Due to the small sub-sample sizes, these findings indicate localized descriptive tendencies rather than industry-wide generalizations. The findings suggest that age is a critical determinant of occupational health literacy. To enhance safety performance in the forest products industry, SMEs should implement age-stratified communication strategies. Specifically, bridging the "Institutional Literacy" gap for young workers and utilizing senior employees as "Safety Mentors" can create a more resilient safety culture.