Safety Practices on Lead Poisoning Among Battery Technicians in Lagos Nigeria, 2017

Abstract

Battery technicians need to maintain due diligence on safety practices at workplace to guide against lead poisoning, since preventive measures are the most cost-effective interventions against lead-related diseases. This study compared and investigated factors that influence battery technician's safety practices in Lagos, Nigeria. It was predicted that workplace conditions, blood lead levels and perceived risks could influence safety practices on lead poisoning. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey design, and systematic sampling were used to select N=293 adults aged 18 years and above. The instrument was validated and reliability established. The hypotheses were tested with chi-square and multiple logistic regression at p < 0.05 and 95% CI. The finding on safety practices status of battery technicians is 20% and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) 18%. There was no significant difference between battery technicians in the organized and roadside settings considering perceived risk of lead poisoning and utilization of safety equipment.