Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 8
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 9
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 10
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 10
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 10
CHAPTER TWO.. 13
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 13
2.1 Introduction.. 13
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 13
2.2.1 Social Determinants of Health Theory. 13
2.2.2 Structural-Functionalism Theory. 14
2.2.3 Health Belief Model Theory.. 14
2.2.4 Ecological Systems Theory. 15
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 15
2.4 Empirical Review.. 18
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 20
Chapter Three.. 21
Research Methodology.. 21
3.1 Introduction.. 21
3.2 Research Design.. 21
3.3 Population of the Study.. 21
3.4 Sampling Techniques and Sample Size.. 22
3.5 Data Collection Methods. 22
3.6 Research Instruments. 23
3.7 Data Analysis Techniques. 23
3.8 Ethical Considerations. 23
3.9 Limitations of the Study.. 24
3.10 Conclusion.. 24
CHAPTER FOUR.. 26
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 26
4.1 Preamble.. 26
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 26
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 28
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 28
Discussion of findings. 44
CHAPTER FIVE.. 47
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 47
5.1 Introduction.. 47
5.2 Recommendations for Improvement. 49
5.3 Conclusion.. 50
REFERENCES.. 50
Research Questionnaire: The Impact of Occupational Hazards on Worker Health and Safety in Nigeria (A Case Study of Heinsek Integrated Services, Uyo). 53
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Occupational hazards constitute a significant threat to worker health and safety in Nigeria, perpetuating a cycle of risks that compromise the well-being of the labor force. With Nigeria's diverse economic landscape encompassing industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and healthcare, workers face a myriad of occupational hazards ranging from physical injuries to exposure to hazardous substances. These hazards not only endanger the lives and health of workers but also undermine the country's efforts towards sustainable development and economic prosperity. As such, understanding the multifaceted impact of occupational hazards is crucial for devising effective interventions to mitigate risks and promote safer work environments.
A plethora of research underscores the pervasive nature of occupational hazards in Nigeria and their detrimental effects on worker health and safety. Studies by Okafor et al. (2019) and ILO (2020) provide insights into the prevalence of workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities across different sectors, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures. Furthermore, research by Umeokafor et al. (2018) emphasizes the socio-economic ramifications of occupational hazards, including loss of income, disability, and decreased quality of life for affected workers and their families. Moreover, the findings of Nwankwo et al. (2021) shed light on the challenges faced by marginalized groups, such as informal sector workers and migrant laborers, in accessing occupational health services and legal protections.
Addressing the impact of occupational hazards on worker health and safety in Nigeria requires a comprehensive approach that integrates legislative reforms, enforcement mechanisms, and capacity-building initiatives. Despite existing regulatory frameworks aimed at ensuring workplace safety, enforcement remains a critical challenge due to factors such as corruption, resource constraints, and inadequate infrastructure. Therefore, concerted efforts are needed from government agencies, employers, trade unions, civil society organizations, and international partners to strengthen occupational health and safety systems, enhance compliance with standards, and promote a culture of prevention in the workplace. By prioritizing the health and safety of its workforce, Nigeria can foster sustainable development, social equity, and economic prosperity for all its citizens.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The impact of occupational hazards on worker health and safety in Nigeria presents a multifaceted problem with far-reaching consequences for the nation's workforce. Despite existing legislation and regulatory frameworks aimed at ensuring workplace safety, numerous challenges persist, exacerbating the risks faced by workers across various sectors. Studies by Okafor et al. (2019) and Nwankwo et al. (2021) have highlighted the prevalence of occupational hazards, including physical injuries, exposure to harmful substances, and ergonomic strains, underscoring the urgent need for effective interventions. Furthermore, the socio-economic implications of these hazards, such as loss of income, disability, and reduced quality of life, contribute to the perpetuation of poverty and inequality, further exacerbating the problem.
One of the primary issues exacerbating the impact of occupational hazards in Nigeria is the inadequate enforcement of safety standards and regulations. Despite the presence of regulatory bodies tasked with overseeing workplace safety, enforcement mechanisms often fall short, leading to widespread non-compliance among employers. This lax enforcement not only compromises the health and safety of workers but also perpetuates a culture of impunity, where violations of safety standards go unchecked. Additionally, the lack of access to occupational health services and resources further compounds the problem, particularly for vulnerable groups such as informal sector workers and migrant laborers, as highlighted by Nwankwo et al. (2021).
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the impact of occupational hazards on worker health and safety in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To assess the prevalence of occupational hazards across different industries in Nigeria.
- To investigate the association between occupational hazards and worker health outcomes in Nigeria.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of existing occupational health and safety OH&S practices in mitigating risks in Nigeria.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What is the distribution of various occupational hazards across major industries in Nigeria?
- Is there a correlation between exposure to specific occupational hazards and the incidence of work-related injuries and illnesses among Nigerian workers?
- To what extent are current OH&S regulations and enforcement mechanisms followed by workplaces in Nigeria?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant impact of occupational hazards on worker health and safety in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Occupational Health & Safety sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Heinsek Integrated Services, Uyo. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
