Occupational Health and Safety Conditions of Informal Sector Workers in Three Nigerian Cities

Abstract

Despite its economic relevance, the informal sector in Nigeria is plagued by occupational health and safety (ohs) anomalies. This study assessed ohs conditions among informal sector workers (isw s) operating in three Nigerian cities (Sokoto, Owerri and Port Harcourt). A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from a total of 717 isw s. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in data analysis. Logistic regression was used in predicting good ohs practices, based on gender, education level, occupation, health impairments and common health and safety practices. The findings show that many isw s have inadequate water sources and sanitary facilities and poor occupational health and safety practices. The overall model was statistically significant in predicting the likelihood of having good ohs practices. The study concludes that ohs conditions among isw s are poor as a result of insufficient water and sanitation facilities and poor environmental health practices. Improved water and sanitation provision and ohs awareness and education programmes for isw s, in line with their specific occupations and susceptibility to certain kinds of occupational health impairment, are recommended.