Risk and Safety Vulnerability of Maritime Transport Operators in Riverine Settlements within Niger Delta, Nigeria

Abstract

The maritime transport operators in riverine settlements of Niger Delta, Nigeria are faced with multiple occupational risks, which threatens their safety and daily operations. This study looked at the risk exposure among 300 operators in Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, using the cross-sectional survey design tool. Data collected was through questionnaires, key informant interviews and focus group discussions covering demographics, occupational hazards, exposure levels, safety practices and psychological effects. Findings indicated high exposure to biological hazards at 82 per cent, chemical hazards (74 per cent), physical hazards (70 per cent), ergonomic risks (66 per cent), psychological stress (80 per cent) and criminal activities, including piracy and robbery at 66 per cent. Major sources of risk included water-borne pathogens (50 per cent), manual lifting and ergonomic strain (44 per cent) and psychological stressors at 54 per cent. Safety practices were generally poor with life jacket use indicated by 28 per cent, personal protective equipment (34 per cent) and participation in safety training at 30 per cent. Psychological impacts were substantial as stress affected 64 per cent of operators, emotional exhaustion (60 per cent), while fear of criminal attacks was indicated by 66 per cent. Only 16 per cent of the respondents indicated psychological counselling. A Chi- square analysis revealed a significant relationship between safety training and work-related stress was less than 0.05.