SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC DETERMINANTS OF SAFETY COMPLIANCE AMONG STAFF OF MEDICAL HEALTH CENTRES IN DELTA STATE OWN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING

Abstract

Despite the significance of safety practice in protecting health and preventing disease, many workers are still adamant complying with safety measures in their workplace. This study investigated the socio-demographic determinants of compliance with safety measures among medical workers in government-owned colleges, polytechnics, and universities in Delta State, Nigeria. Descriptive survey design was adopted. The population of the study comprised of 450 staff from various medical health care centers, with a sample size of 315 participants selected through systematic and purposive sampling techniques. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire, divided into sections addressing demographic data and safety compliance variables, using a five-point scale ranging from very low to very high extent. Data collection was facilitated by twelve trained research assistants over a one-month period. The analysis, conducted using SPSS, utilized percentage, mean, standard deviation, and multiple regression. In gender, males constitute the highest group with 58.1%, while females represent the lower group at 41.9%. Regarding age, the 30-39 years group forms the largest segment at 31.1%, whereas individuals below 20 years are the smallest group, accounting for only 3.5%. In educational attainment, the majority (72.4%) have tertiary education, with primary education being non-existent (0.0%) in this sample. Concerning work experience, the 1-4 years category is predominant at 39.0%, and those with less than a years experience form the smallest group at 1.3%.The findings revealed that the workers extent of compliance to Safe Waste Management (3.56±0.900) and Use of PPE (3.41±1.001) was high. While their compliance to Safety Training (2.58±0.800) and Disease Prevention Safety Practices (2.94±1.021) was moderate.The institution administration complied with safety measure to moderately (2.87±0.967). The study found significant relationships between compliance and socio-demographic factors, such as age, education level, and work experience, and work experience (p<0.05). In line with the findings, it was recommended among others that institutions develop and implement ongoing, tailored training programs. These programs should be designed to address specific needs and gaps in knowledge and practices.