OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY PRACTICES AND WORKPLACE ACCIDENTS AMONG PLASTIC INDUSTRY WORKERS IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

This study explored the influence of occupational safety practices on workplace accidents among workers from plastic manufacturing industries in Lagos State, Nigeria. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. The target population for the study consisted of 797 workers from the plastic manufacturing industries in Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Area of Lagos State. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire. The instrument had a reliability index of 0.82. A total of 568 responses were received, resulting in a response rate of 71.3%. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics of Chi-square at p<0.05. The result indicated a significant relationship between occupational safety practices and workplace accidents involving workers. Equipment handling practices exhibited show a significant relationship to workplace accidents (χ² = 273.19, df = 12, p < 0.05). There was also statistical significance in waste disposal practices in relation to workplace accidents (χ² = 425.85, df = 12, p < 0.05). Moreover, there was statistical significance in the use of personal protective equipment practices (χ² = 309.55, df = 12, p < 0.05) on workplace accidents. It was recommended that the management in plastic manufacturing industries should conduct occupational safety training programmes to their employees regularly. There is also the need for industries to set up effective waste management practices within their organisations to enhance safety and environmental conservation.