An assessment of the effect of health education on the use of personal protective equipment among small scale welders (panel beaters) in Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Welding work serves as a means of livelihood for many Nigerians and welders are exposed to a variety of occupational hazards. In Nigeria, high rate of welding injuries has been reported to be due to low or non-use of PPE and this has been attributed to poor knowledge. Several studies have recommended education as a means of educating welders. The aim of the study is to determine the effect of health education intervention on PPE use among oxyacetylene welders. Methods: This is an interventional study with a control. Data was collected using an interviewer administered questionnaire from respondents selected by simple random technique, and was repeated after 3 month after health education intervention. Data was analysed using SPSS version 20, Chi-square analysis was used to determine observed differences between both groups pre- and post-intervention. Results: At pre- intervention, there were significant differences in the level of knowledge and use of some PPE between the two groups. The proportions of respondents that have knowledge of various types of PPE and used them was significantly higher in the intervention group (p<0.05). The frequency of used of PPE also increased. The main reason for non-use of PPEs were high cost and inconvenience . Conclusions: Health education brought about a significant increase in awareness and use of PPE. Regular health education needs to be given to all cadres of workers in their workplaces on the use of PPE to reduce occupational related injuries.