Occupational hazards among medical radiation workers

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of occupational hazards among medical radiation workers in Northern Nigeria and to assess the adequacy of existing occupational safety measures in the region. Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study of 139 medical radiation workers in six tertiary health-care institutions in northern Nigeria. Structured questionnaires were used to obtain vital information about the occurrence of occupational hazards, prevention and control measures. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics using the computer software SPSS. Results: Out of 159 questionnaires distributed 139 were retrieved giving a response rate 87.4%. Stress, direct contact with bodily fluids, and contrast media splashes were the three most prevalent hazards reported by 121 (87.1%), 78 (56.1%), and 72 (51.8%), respectively. Conclusion: Medical radiation workers in Northern Nigeria face a wide range of occupational hazards, and therefore concerted efforts must be channeled toward mitigating these hazards.