Determinants of Occupational Health Hazards among Roadside Automobile Mechanics in Zaria, North Western Nigeria.

Abstract

Background: In spite of the progress made so far, in occupational health and safety in Nigeria, it is reported that the level of mechanics'  knowledge of the hazards of their occupation or of the existing legislation which should contribute to improving occupational health and  safety practice is still low and thus predispose them to various types of occupational hazards.

Objectives:This study is aimed at  identifying the determinants of occupational health hazards among road side automobile mechanics in Zaria and to determine the level  of their knowledge and practice on the use of personal protective equipment.

Method: This is a cross sectional descriptive study to  identify the pattern of occupational health hazard, knowledge and practice of safety measures amongst roadside automobile mechanics  in Zaria using interviewer administered questionnaire.

Results: Out of the 200 respondents, 53.5% had secondary education, 29.5% had  primary education while 3.5% were illiterate and 12.5% had informal education. Full time mechanics constituted 82%. Majority of the  mechanics 44.5% were involved in general vehicle repairs, 26.5% were motor engine mechanics, 15% were auto electricians and 9% were  welders. The commonest injuries were burns (86%), bruises (64.5%), crushed digits (62%) and cuts (59%). Forty nine percent (49%) had  experienced low backaches, 15% had joint pains, and 7% had hernia. Eighty two percent (82%) were aware of protective devices. The  commonest known safety devices were overalls (85%), boots (82.5%) and rubber gloves (80%) while the least known type of safety device  was earmuff (25.5%) and barrier cream (3.5%). More than 3/4 (77.5%) were trained via apprenticeship and only 28% trained for more than  6 years. Majority (77.5%) worked 6–11 hours daily.

Conclusion: The study shows that training type, duration of training, years of  experience and level of awareness of protective device are the major determinants of occupational hazards among roadside automobile mechanics in Zaria. Also there was high level of awareness but low usage of protective device among respondents. There is need for  emphasis on health education through programs promoting work place safety among automobile workers.