Journal of Occupational Health, Risk Management, and Safety
The Journal of Occupational Health, Risk Management and Safety (JOHRMS)--ONLINE ISSN: 3121-8806-is a peer-reviewed, multidisciplinary journal published by the Department of Environmental Management, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, University of Calabar, Nigeria. The journal provides a credible platform for the dissemination of cutting-edge research, critical reviews, and best practices in occupational health, risk assessment, workplace safety, and environmental management across industrial, rural, and urban sectors — particularly within Africa and other developing regions. JOHRMS seeks to bridge the gap between academic research and practical implementation by featuring high-impact contributions that address workplace safety, environmental hazards, public health risks, and sustainable occupational practices. The journal strongly encourages evidence-based papers that support policy formulation, regulatory improvements, and capacity building for safer and healthier environments. More Details
Department of Environmental Management, Faculty of Environmental Sciences,University of Calabar, Nigeria
All articles published in the Journal of Occupational Health, Risk Management and Safety (JOHRMS) are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). This means: Authors retain full copyright ownership. Anyone may share, adapt, and use the published material for any lawful purpose, including commercial use, provided that proper credit is given to the authors and the journal. Changes must be indicated, and links to the license must be included. License link: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ By submitting a manuscript to JOHRMS, authors agree to this licensing policy.
Assessment of Sanitation Conditions and Water Availability within Informal Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) Camps in Maiduguri Metropolis, Nigeria
This study provides an in-depth assessment of sanitation conditions and water availability in selected informal Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps within Maiduguri Metropolis, Borno State, Nigeria. The research was necessitated by the growing concerns surrounding public health and environmental safety in informal IDP settlements, which host thousands of individuals displaced by insurgency. A total of 400 respondents were sampled using structured questionnaires, while additional insights were gathered through interviews with key stakeholders and direct field observations. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and simple percentage distributions to present a clear understanding of prevailing sanitation challenges. Findings indicate severe inadequacies in sanitation infrastructure across the camps. Only 23% of respondents have access to any form of toilet facility, while the majority (77%) report having no access, resulting in the widespread practice of open defecation and the use of bushy areas. Shared pit latrines account for 39% of the available facilities, yet these are often overcrowded and poorly maintained. Access to safe drinking water is equally limited, with 62% of respondents relying on potentially contaminated water sources, thereby increasing their exposure to waterborne diseases. The study concludes that informal IDP camps in Maiduguri Metropolitan face critical sanitation and public health challenges that demand urgent, targeted interventions. It recommends collaborative efforts by government agencies, non-governmental organizations, humanitarian actors, and community leaders to improve sanitation infrastructure, ensure access to safe drinking water, establish effective waste management systems, and strengthen health education campaigns. These measures are essential for safeguarding the well-being of displaced populations and mitigating the public health risks associated with poor sanitation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammed, Lawan Marte, Adepetu, Nurudeen Adebola, Lawuyi, Timothy (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Dynamics of Communal Conflicts on Agricultural Productivity and Food Security in Communities of Southern Cross River State, Nigeria
This study examined the dynamics of communal conflicts and their effects on agricultural productivity and household food security in communities of Southern Cross River State, Nigeria. Specifically, it investigated the impact of communal conflicts on agricultural productivity and assessed their influence on household food security. A cross-sectional survey design incorporating both quantitative and qualitative approaches was adopted. Data were collected from 624 respondents selected through purposive and simple random sampling from conflict-prone communities in Biase, Akamkpa, and Odukpani Local Government Areas. Information was obtained using questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations, and analyzed with descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that communal conflicts significantly reduced agricultural productivity, with output declining by 41.4 percent for cassava, 40.3 percent for yam, 37.2 percent for maize, 44.7 percent for cocoa, and 42.6 percent for plantain. Livelihood impact indices ranged from 55.6 percent in Ojor versus Uyanga to 86.3 percent in New Natin versus Odukpani, while household income declined by 63.4 percent in severely affected communities. Food security was similarly compromised, as household food self-sufficiency decreased from 74.5 percent to 46.2 percent, and the average number of meals consumed per day fell from 3.0 to 1.9.The study concluded that communal conflicts have profound negative effects on agricultural productivity and household food security in Southern Cross River State. It recommended strengthening conflict resolution mechanisms, implementing livelihood support programmes, and developing policies that enhance agricultural resilience and promote sustainable food security.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ogban, Promise Eduk, Andrew-Essien, Elizabeth Asekong (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Exposure Duration to Quarry Dust and Disease Burden among Quarry Workers in Akamkpa LGA, Cross River State
This study examined the relationship between quarry dust exposure intensity, exposure duration, and disease burden among quarry workers in Akamkpa Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted using a quantitative research approach. Data were collected from 359 quarry workers selected through multistage sampling across major quarry sites in the study area. Structured questionnaires were used to gather information on socio-demographic characteristics, occupational categories, daily exposure in hours, weekly and monthly exposure patterns, cumulative years of exposure, and self-reported health conditions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and crosstabulation. Findings revealed that a majority of workers (60.4 percent) spent 5 to 8 hours daily at quarry sites, while 17.3 percent were exposed for more than 8 hours. Exposure was highest during morning and afternoon shifts, which represent peak operational and dust-generating periods. Occupational analysis showed that high-risk groups such as drillers, blasters, and crusher operators experienced the highest exposure intensity and cumulative exposure over time. Respiratory conditions, particularly catarrh, cough, and nasal infection, were the most frequently reported illnesses across all exposure categories. The results further demonstrated a clear increase in disease burden with longer and more intense exposure, indicating a dose–response relationship between quarry dust exposure and adverse health outcomes. The study concludes that prolonged and high-intensity exposure to quarry dust significantly increases the burden of respiratory and related occupational diseases among quarry workers. It recommends strict enforcement of occupational safety measures, consistent use of personal protective equipment, reduction of working hours in high-dust zones through shift rotation, and regular medical surveillance to mitigate exposure-related health risks in quarry environments.
Copyright (c) 2026 Oko, Peter Ereh, Okpiliya, Francis Inah, Udousoro, Idorenyin Lawrence, Odey, David Ushie, Agbor, Benedict Ojong (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Exploring the Physicochemical Characteristics and Microbial Dynamics of Water Systems Surrounding Lemna Dumpsite in Calabar Municipality, Nigeria
This study assessed the physicochemical characteristics and microbial dynamics of water systems surrounding the Lemna dumpsite in Calabar Municipality, Nigeria, to determine contamination levels and associated public health risks. A descriptive and analytical design was adopted. Primary data were obtained through field sampling of surface and groundwater, laboratory analyses, structured questionnaires, and interviews, while secondary data were sourced from literature and environmental reports. Water samples from Obot Obu, Effanga Bassey, Dan Achibong, Borrow Pit Beach, and Sandmining Beach were analyzed using standard methods. Data were treated with descriptive statistics, comparison with WHO and NESREA standards, thematic analysis, and multiple regression. Results indicated marked deterioration in water quality. pH ranged from 5.9 to 6.8, dissolved oxygen from 3.7 to 5.0 milligrams per litre, total dissolved solids from 580 to 710 milligrams per litre, electrical conductivity from 1230 to 1520 microsiemens per centimetre, and turbidity from 7.2 to 11.0 NTU. Heavy metals, including lead (0.03 to 0.07 milligrams per litre), and nitrate levels (58 to 78 milligrams per litre) exceeded permissible limits. Microbial counts were also elevated: total coliforms (29 to 55 CFU per 100 millilitres), E. coli (16 to 25), Salmonella spp. (5 to 10), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (8 to 15), and Giardia lamblia (2 to 5). Regression analysis showed a strong relationship between contamination and health risks (R = 0.739; R² = 0.546; F = 210.387, p < 0.001), indicating that over 54% of health variations were explained by pollution. The study concludes that water sources are unsafe and recommends improved waste management, routine monitoring, provision of safe water, and public education.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Environmental Hazards and Occupational Health Risk Exposure among Urban Market Traders Operating around Waste Disposal Sites in Aba, Nigeria
Traders operating in locational markets in Aba, Nigeria, are continuously exposed to multiple occupational, environmental, and public health hazards due to inadequate waste management and unsafe working conditions. This study examined the impact of waste dump sites on the health of market traders in Aba Metropolis, focusing on occupational injuries, food safety practices, environmental hygiene, and access to health and regulatory support. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining structured questionnaires administered to 400 traders, field observations, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. Descriptive analysis was used to summarize patterns of exposure, risk, and health outcomes. Findings revealed high levels of occupational risk, with 73% of traders experiencing injuries such as burns, cuts, and musculoskeletal strain. Environmental exposure risks, including proximity to open drains, improper waste disposal, and dust from nearby dump sites, affected 67% of respondents, while 78% reported poor health surveillance and 76% experienced regulatory neglect. Food safety practices were inconsistent, with less than half of traders regularly washing hands or covering food from contaminants. Health symptoms commonly reported included respiratory irritation (45.5%), eye discomfort (51%), and minor burns and wounds (59.5%). The study highlights a clear link between poor waste management practices and adverse health outcomes among market traders, reinforcing the need for targeted interventions. The research concludes that improved waste management, occupational safety measures, and regulatory oversight are critical to protecting traders’ health and enhancing the sustainability of locational markets. These findings suggested that policymakers and urban planners should develop integrated strategies that combine environmental sanitation, occupational safety, and public health initiatives in Nigerian urban markets.
Copyright (c) 2026 Oguibe, Adaeze Lilian-norah, Oko, Peter Ereh, Adindu, Ndudim Desire, Bisong, Joseph Obi, Agbor, Benedict Ojong, Ekumankama, Chidinma Destiny (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Employee Involvement in Workplace Safety and Health-Seeking Behaviour among Workers in Oil and Gas Dispensing Outfits in Calabar Metropolis, Nigeria
Employee involvement in safety matters has increasingly been recognized as a critical component of organizational safety culture, with potential implications for workers’ health behaviours. This study examined the extent of employee involvement in safety matters and its relationship with health-seeking behaviour among workers in oil and gas dispensing outfits in Calabar Metropolis, Nigeria. A cross-sectional mixed-method survey design was adopted, and data were collected from a sample of 212 respondents and 12 key informants using structured questionnaires and key informant interview guide. Frequencies and percentages, Pearson’s Correlation, and linear regression) were respectively used to assess the level of employee involvement in safety matters, relationships, and predictive effects. Findings revealed a high level of employee involvement in safety activities, a moderately positive relationship between employee involvement in safety matters and health-seeking behaviour (r = 0.498, p < 0.05), and a significant predictive effect of employee involvement on health-seeking behaviour (β = 0.498, R² = 0.248, p < 0.05). These results underscore the importance of participatory safety practices in shaping not only workplace safety outcomes but also individual health-related behaviours. The study concludes that fostering active employee participation in safety management can enhance workers’ responsiveness to health needs and promote proactive health-seeking behaviour. It is recommended that organizations strengthen inclusive safety policies, enhance training programs, and create supportive environments that encourage safety compliance and positive health behaviours. The study contributes to the growing body of literature linking safety culture with broader health outcomes, particularly in high-risk occupational settings within developing contexts.
Knowledge of environmental hygiene and food safety practices among food handlers in selected hotels in Ikom Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria.
The study examined the knowledge of environmental hygiene and food safety practices among food handlers in selected hotels in Ikom Local Government Area (LGA), Cross River State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted, incorporating both surveys and direct observation of food handlers’ practices. The study population comprised 63 registered hotels in the LGA, from which 6 hotels (10%) that had been in operation for at least five years were purposively selected. Respondents included food handlers with a minimum of two years of work experience. Data was analyzed using Pearson Product-Moment Correlation (PPMC) to test the relationship between food safety training and food safety practices among the respondents. The findings revealed a statistically significant relationship (r = 0.66, n=8, p< 0.05) between food safety and improved food safety practices, particularly in areas such as hand washing and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). However, the overall knowledge of environmental hygiene and food safety was found to be inadequate, with noticeable gaps in critical aspects of food safety. The study concludes that continuous and structured training programs are necessary to enhance knowledge, reinforce safe practices, and improve overall food safety compliance among food handlers in the study area.
Sustainable Waste Management Innovations and Behavioural Risk among Traders in Watt Market, Calabar metropolis, Nigeria
This study examined sustainable waste management innovations and the behavioral risks faced by traders at Watt Market in Calabar Metropolis, Nigeria. It sought to establish how the attitudes and perceptions of traders influence their adoption of sustainable waste management innovations. Specifically, the objectives of the study were to examine the level of engagement of traders with sustainable waste management practices, including proper waste storage, waste segregation, waste recycling, and waste reduction. It also sought to examine the level of influence of behavioral risks on the adoption of sustainable waste management innovations by traders. It was hypothesized that the adoption of sustainable waste management innovations by traders is significantly influenced by their behavioral attitudes and perceptions. It was revealed that 23.7 per cent of the traders had a very high level of engagement with proper waste storage, while 16.2 per cent of the traders had a high level of engagement with waste segregation. It was also revealed that 14.4 per cent of the traders had a high level of engagement with waste recycling. In addition, 22.1 per cent of the traders were highly influenced by convenience while disposing of waste, while 20.7 per cent of the traders disposed of waste indiscriminately. The results show that there is a strong positive correlation between the variables since the value of R is 0.732. In addition, regression analysis showed that behavioral risks did significantly predict adoption since the value of B was 0.671 and the results were significant at 0.001. The findings of the research showed that attitudes of the traders, awareness of the importance of sustainability, and convenience-related behavior are strong predictors of sustainable waste management. The research also showed that environmental education and behavioral approaches could improve compliance with proper waste management.
Occupational Hazard Typologies and Exposure Patterns among Healthcare Workers in Primary and Secondary Healthcare Facilities in Calabar Metropolis, Nigeria
This study examined occupational hazard typologies and exposure patterns among healthcare workers in primary and secondary healthcare facilities in Calabar Metropolis, Nigeria. The aim was to assess the level of hazard awareness, compliance with safety protocols, and the influence of facility type and exposure frequency on safety adherence. The objectives were to identify the types of occupational hazards encountered, determine exposure patterns across facility types, evaluate compliance with safety protocols, and examine factors influencing compliance. The study tested the null hypothesis that healthcare workers’ compliance with occupational safety protocols is not significantly influenced by hazard awareness, type of healthcare facility, or exposure to occupational hazards. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with a sample of 384 healthcare workers proportionally drawn from primary and secondary facilities using multistage and simple random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations. Occupational hazards identified included biological (12.5 percent), chemical (9.9 percent), physical (10.9 percent), ergonomic (9.1 percent), and psychosocial risks (11.5 percent). Exposure patterns showed that average weekly hazard exposure ranged from 32 to 45 hours, with PPE usage and compliance varying by facility type and department. Binary Logistic Regression revealed that hazard awareness (high vs low: OR = 6.36, p = 0.000), facility type (private vs government: OR = 2.86, p = 0.003), and exposure frequency (OR = 1.08, p = 0.000) significantly predicted compliance with safety protocols, leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. The study concluded that higher hazard awareness, private facility employment, and increased exposure enhance compliance. Recommendations include targeted training in government facilities, reinforcement of PPE use, and routine monitoring of compliance to reduce occupational risks and improve safety culture among healthcare workers.
Between Privacy and Risk: Health Implications Linked to the Use of Sexual Wellness Devices among Female Students in Nigerian Universities
The use of sexual wellness devices among female university students is an emerging phenomenon in Nigeria, with implications for sexual health, mental well-being, and healthcare utilization. This study examined the accessibility, utilization patterns, hygiene practices, perceived benefits, reported symptoms, and healthcare-seeking behaviours associated with sexual wellness device use among female students across fifteen federal universities. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 600 female students, supplemented with key informant interviews (KIIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) involving university health workers, including gynaecology nurses and medical officers. Data were collected using structured questionnaires for students and semi-structured interview guides for health workers, and analyzed using descriptive and thematic approaches. Findings revealed that vibrators were the most commonly used devices (68%), with online vendors being the primary source (59%). Usage patterns varied from occasional to frequent use, often influenced by peer networks and personal autonomy. Hygiene practices were inconsistent, with only 41% of students reporting regular cleaning before and after use, while 16% admitted to sharing devices. Students reported several health symptoms, including vaginal itching (31%), abnormal discharge (27%), and lower abdominal discomfort (19%), yet healthcare utilization was low; 41% relied on self-medication and 29% sought no treatment. Despite these risks, students reported benefits such as sexual satisfaction, stress relief, improved sleep, and body awareness. Findings from KIIs and FGDs highlighted stigma, lack of guidance, and limited youth-friendly services as key barriers to safe use and timely healthcare access. The study recommends systematic sexual health education, safe use guidelines, and confidential healthcare services to promote responsible use of sexual wellness devices and mitigate associated health risks among female students.
Risk and Safety Vulnerability of Maritime Transport Operators in Riverine Settlements within Niger Delta, Nigeria
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.
Impact of Occupational Stressors on Healthcare Workers in Federal Psychiatric Hospital Calabar, Cross River State.
The study examined the impact of occupational stressors on healthcare workers at the Federal Psychiatric Hospital, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. Occupational stress among healthcare workers in the hospital is widespread, often severe, and remains largely inadequately addressed despite the demanding nature of psychiatric healthcare. Staff are routinely exposed to numerous occupational hazards that reflect the realities of mental health service delivery. A survey research design with a quantitative approach was adopted, while stratified random sampling was used for data collection. Regarding the nature and types of workplace stressors, 21.2% of respondents reported "No experience", whereas 80% indicated notable "Experience" of workplace stressors. A high-stress work environment constituted the leading stress-inducing factor, accounting for 12.6%. Concerning the impact of staff shortages on service delivery, 29.1% identified staff shortages as a major challenge, while 31.1% reported experiencing high levels of psychological stress. Burnout was identified as the primary consequence by 28.5% of respondents. The findings further revealed that excessive workload, administrative responsibilities, and frequent exposure to aggressive patients contribute substantially to occupational stress. Inadequate staffing, shortages of medical supplies, and limited access to essential equipment further compromise healthcare delivery and leave many professionals overwhelmed by increasing patient demands, creating critical service gaps. The study recommends that hospital management implement comprehensive stress management programs, reduce excessive workloads to minimize burnout, recruit additional staff to address workforce shortages, and improve funding to ensure the adequate provision of medical supplies and essential equipment needed for effective healthcare delivery.
Assessment of Indigenous Knowledge and Climate Resilience in River Benue Communities, Nigeria
Rural communities along Nigeria’s River Benue face increasing climate variability, erratic rainfall, floods, and droughts that threaten their predominantly agricultural and fishing livelihoods. This study assesses how indigenous knowledge (IK) and traditional practices enhance climate resilience in selected River Benue communities. Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted 120 household interviews across six villages, complemented by four focus group discussions and secondary literature review. Results show that 78% of farmers rely on natural indicators (such as animal behaviour, plant phenology, wind, and cloud patterns) to predict seasonal weather, which increases planting timeliness by an estimated 24% compared to those who adopt later. About 65% of households practice water harvesting and communal pond storage, while 71% cultivate drought-resistant crops such as millet, sorghum, cassava, and cowpea. Agroforestry and mulching are employed by 59% of respondents, leading to an average 18% increase in soil moisture retention during dry spells. Commons management remains strong: 82% of communities enforce taboos or rotational fishing rules, while fish fences (weirs) on the river contribute up to 35% of seasonal fish catch. Local institutions, particularly village councils and elders, resolve over 70% of reported disputes on land and water access through mediation. Collectively, these IK-based strategies have improved household food security by 22% (measured as months of adequate food provisioning) and reduced income loss from climate shocks by 15% over the past decade. The findings demonstrate that integrating ancestral wisdom with modern adaptation strategies can significantly strengthen resilience, safeguard livelihoods, and promote sustainable development in River Benue communities under a changing climate.
Hotel Security Preparedness and Vulnerability to Armed Robbery and Kidnapping in Cross River State, Nigeria
This study compared hotel safety preparedness against armed robbery and kidnapping in Cross River State. A mixed methods design was employed, involving surveys, interviews, and physical observation. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select participants. Calabar Municipality, Ikom, and Ogoja LGAs were chosen as administrative centres representing the Southern, Central, and Northern regions, respectively. In the second stage, hotels in these LGAs were stratified into three-star, two-star, and one-star categories. The study population comprised 359 registered hotels, from which 36 hotels (10%) that had operated for at least five years in their respective LGAs were sampled. Respondents were hotel workers with a minimum of two years' experience who participated in the study, resulting in 531 respondents across the regions. One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to test a hypothesis, to show the differences in safety preparedness across the hotel categories. The findings revealed a statistically significant difference at the p<.05 level (F=11.826, p=.042), with three-star hotels demonstrating higher levels of safety preparedness. This disparity suggests increased vulnerability in lower-ranked hotels. The study recommends that all hotel categories strengthen their security infrastructure and enhance collaboration with security agencies to improve safety within the hotel environment.
Copyright (c) 2025 Eyo, Ekei Effiong, Ajake, Anim Obongha, Omubo, Ruth Fingite, Ekpe, Anthony Okon, Bassey, Bernard Obagha, Ndiyo, Ndiyo Nkpo, Oyo-Ita, Dorothy Edet, Oboma, Patrick Onen (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Flood Hazard Vulnerability and Resilience Strategies among Women in Odukpani’s Coastal Communities, Cross River State, Nigeria
This study examined women’s vulnerability to flood hazards and their resilience strategies in Odukpani’s coastal communities, Cross River State, Nigeria. It aimed to assess the extent of vulnerability, identify adopted coping strategies, and determine socio-economic factors influencing resilience. The hypothesis tested was that women’s socio-economic characteristics significantly affect their resilience to flooding. Using a descriptive survey design, 384 women were selected through stratified random sampling. Data were gathered with a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression in SPSS. Findings revealed that women in Odukpani experience high flood vulnerability, with 41.9 percent reporting that flooding occurs very often and 25.8 percent stating it happens frequently. Housing was the most affected sector (36.2 percent), followed by farming and fishing (28.9 percent). In response, 30.5 percent of women temporarily relocated to safer areas, while 27.9 percent stored food and water. Only 2.5 percent relied on government or NGO aid, indicating weak institutional support. Regression results showed that socio-economic characteristics significantly influenced resilience, explaining 92.8 percent of its variance (R² = 0.928, F = 1637.0, p < 0.001). Household income (B = 0.520, p < 0.001) and social support networks (B = 0.330, p < 0.001) had strong positive effects, while education (B = 0.024, p = 0.410) was positive but not significant. The study concluded that financial and institutional constraints heighten vulnerability. It recommended economic empowerment, better infrastructure, effective early warning systems, and stronger institutional support, while urging future studies to explore how cultural and gender dynamics shape long-term adaptation.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Assessing Knowledge and Usage of Personal Protective Equipment among Hotel Employees in Calabar Municipality, Nigeria
The study investigated the level of awareness, availability and the utilization of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) among hotel employees in Calabar Municipality. A mixed- method design was employed for the study, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews and supplemented by observational checklist to verify real time workplace safety practices. The study population comprised 249 duly registered hotels in Calabar Municipality, from which 25 hotels (10%) were sampled. Respondents included hotel staff across various departments such as kitchen, reception, maintenance and housekeeping. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and checklists, with 186 staff members selected based on the criterion of having worked in that hotel for a minimum of two years. Hypothesis was tested using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). Result indicated a weak positive correlation between PPE availability and utilization (r =.36, n=7, p>.05), suggesting that the relationship was likely due to random chance and not a real connection, hence statistically was not significant. The study also revealed low awareness of job related hazards, low PPE awareness, limited availability and poor utilization of PPE among hotel staff with significant departmental differences. These findings highlight the gaps in occupational health and safety practices within hotels, which may increase the risk of injury and infection among certain groups of workers. Therefore the study recommends regular trainings on occupational hazards and the provision of adequate PPE across all hotel departments in Calabar Municipality to enhance safety culture and protect workers’ health.
Evaluating Flood Management and Mitigation Strategies in Reducing Market Vulnerability in Kantin Kwari Market, Kano, Nigeria
Flooding is a persistent challenge in urban centres, particularly in Kano, Nigeria, where Kantin Kwari Market, West Africa’s largest textile hub, faces recurring flood-related disruptions. This study evaluates the effectiveness of flood management and mitigation strategies in reducing the market’s vulnerability. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 150 traders through surveys and 10 urban planners through in-depth interviews, supplemented with secondary datasets from NiMet, NIHSA, and NEMA covering flood events from 2010 to 2023. Findings reveal that 85% of traders suffer financial losses during floods, consistent with NEMA’s (2022) estimate of ₦2.1 billion cumulative flood damage across Kano markets between 2015 and 2022. The average reported loss per trader per flood event was ₦501,012.76 Furthermore, only 40% of the market is served by functional drainage, while 72% of traders lack insurance coverage, reflecting NAICOM’s (2023) data on low national micro-insurance penetration rates. A Vulnerability Index score of 0.47, benchmarked against similar markets in Lagos (0.52–0.68), highlights Kantin Kwari’s moderate yet rising vulnerability. These findings underscore the urgent need for drainage system upgrades, stricter enforcement of policies, and expanded micro-insurance coverage. This study offers a framework for urban market resilience through integrated drainage and insurance reforms.
Occupational Exposure and Health Risk Stratification across Quarry Operations in Akamkpa, Nigeria
This study examined occupational exposure and health risk stratification across quarry operations in Akamkpa, Cross River State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data. The target population comprised quarry workers, residents within 1km radius of quarry sites, and healthcare providers in the locality. A total of 400 respondents were selected through stratified random sampling based on occupational roles and distance from quarry sites, while purposive sampling included key informants such as medical officers and site managers. Data collection involved structured questionnaires distribution, interviews, focus group discussions, and instrumental monitoring of air pollutants (PM₂. ₅, PM₁₀, SO₂, and CO) using calibrated devices. Analysis employed descriptive statistics, MANOVA, and Ordinal Logistic Regression to establish associations between exposure levels and health outcomes, while GIS mapping provided spatial visualization of risk distribution. Findings revealed that quarry workers, particularly drillers, loaders, and crushers, experienced the highest levels of exposure and reported more frequent respiratory disorders, hearing impairment, and fatigue compared to administrative staff and nearby residents. Environmental monitoring showed pollutant levels exceeding permissible thresholds, especially PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀. Residents within the immediate vicinity also reported elevated cases of coughing, eye irritation, and cardiovascular stress. The study concludes that occupational exposures significantly undermine health, productivity, and community well-being, underscoring the urgent need for targeted mitigation strategies. It recommends stricter regulatory enforcement, improved safety practices, continuous medical surveillance, and the adoption of dust and noise control technologies in quarry operations.
A Perspective on the Occupational Health, Therapy, and Safety of Sex Workers in Nigeria
This article focuses on human rights challenges, and while it is not meant for an endorsement of prostitution, it expresses concern that sex work in Nigeria exists within a fraught legal, cultural, and health landscape. Although these activities contribute significantly to the informal economy, sex workers remain among the most marginalized and vulnerable populations in the country. This paper examines the occupational health, therapy, and safety of sex workers in Nigeria, focusing on risks related to physical health, mental health, violence, social exclusion, and a lack of institutional protection. With an emphasis on empirical evidence from Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, the paper analyzes how the criminalization of sex work, combined with entrenched societal stigma, systematically denies sex workers access to essential health services, psychological support, and labor rights. Sex workers in Nigeria experience disproportionate rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS, in part due to inconsistent condom use, limited access to healthcare, and exploitation by clients and law enforcement agents. Mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse are common, exacerbated by social isolation, police harassment, and a lack of therapeutic services. Community-based interventions, like those by the Nigerian Sex Workers Alliance (NSWA), offer important harm-reduction frameworks, yet lack broad policy backing.This article recommends a harm reduction approach, decriminalization of consensual adult sex work, and the integration of occupational health principles into public health and labor strategies. By safeguarding the rights and health of sex workers, Nigeria can move toward a more inclusive and equitable health system.