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Effect of Health Education on Knowledge of Occupational Health Hazards Among Auto Technicians in Cross River State, Nigeria

Dominic A Offiong, Antor O Ndep , Joseph A Omang, Monica A Elaunire

Abstract

Introduction: The International Labour Organization estimates that about 2.3 million people around the world succumb to occupational accidents or diseases every year. Aim/ objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of health education on knowledge of occupational health hazards among auto-technicians in Cross River State, Nigeria. Methodology: Guided by two research questions and one hypothesis, the study employed a quasi-experimental design consisting of three phases: pre-intervention survey, health education intervention, and post- intervention survey. A sample size of 222 auto-technicians (111 for control and intervention groups respectively), was selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. The instrument used in the collection of data was a semi-structured questionnaire. The Data was analysed using chi-square statistics and paired sample t-tests, with a significance level set at P<0.05. Results and discussion: Majority of the auto-technicians were male 108 (97.3%) and with an age bracket of 21-30 years 104 (93.7%). Baseline findings revealed a low knowledge level of occupational health hazards between the control 27 (24%) and intervention group 30 (27%), which were not statistically significant (P= 0.113; ?2= 4.356). The end-line finding showed a high knowledge level of occupational health hazards between the control 28 (25%) and intervention group 108 (97.3%), which were statistically significant (P=0.001; ?2= 121.0). Conclusion/recommendation: The targeted health education intervention significantly improved auto technicians’ knowledge of occupational health hazards. The translation of improved knowledge into preventive practices may require further study. A holistic occupational health and safety education during the monthly meeting of the auto technician’s association is recommended.

Keywords

Occupational healthknowledgeauto-technicianshealth education intervention.

References

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