Assessment of health and safety practices among users of wood coatings in Ibadan Metropolis

Abstract

This study investigated the health and safety practices of woodworkers applying wood coatings in furniture finishing within Ibadan Metropolis. A cross-sectional survey design was utilized, targeting a purposively selected sample of 80 male woodworkers. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, safety practices, and exposure to wood coatings. Descriptive statistics, including means and standard deviations, were employed to analyze the data. The results revealed a predominantly youthful and male workforce, with 32.5% aged 20-29 years and 100% male participation. The educational background is relatively high, as 43.8% have completed secondary education, and 28.8% have pursued tertiary education. Awareness of safety practices by the woodworkers shows that they were not ignorant of the need for occupational health and safety practice in the various aspects of their work especially wood coatings. The multiple regression analysis further illustrated that higher educational attainment and years of experience positively influence the adherence to safety practices, indicating the need for improved training and awareness initiatives to enhance the health and safety culture among woodworkers in this study area. The findings highlight the urgent need for improved safety training and stricter enforcement of protective measures to mitigate health risks faced by woodworkers in this sector.