Risk assessment of welding workshops in Jos, Nigeria

摘要

Background: Risk is the likelihood that a person may be harmed or suffers adverse health effects if exposed to a hazard and for welders, there are several hazards lying around them in their workplace. This study aimed to assess the risks in welding workshops and practice of safety measures amongst welders in Jos metropolis. Methodology: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study involving 50 workshops in Jos metropolis. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data which was entered and analyzed using Epi-info version 3.5.4 statistical software. Results: Among the hazards identified in the workshops, manual handling, noise/vibration and fumes had the highest frequencies. All the workshops were well ventilated and 49 (98.0%) were well-lit. None of the shops had fire extinguishers, first aid boxes nor did they label hazardous substances. Only 41 (82.0%) workshops provided goggles for the workers while no helmet, apron nor hearing protection was provided by any of the workshops assessed. Conclusion: From this study, almost all the workshops practiced manual metal arc welding (electric) and the biggest hazards identified in the welding workshops were manual handling of welding equipment, noise, vibration and fumes. Even though there was good environmental control practices of adequate ventilation and lighting, provision of PPE was not adequate. It is recommended that continuous educational campaign on workplace hazards, adequate environmental control measures, provision and proper use of different PPE should be sustained for welders on a regular basis by the welders ? association, local and state governments.