Epidemiology and Correlates of Injuries among Construction Workers in Ilorin, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Occupational injuries remain a serious public health concern worldwide, notably in the construction industry. This study investigated the prevalence, trends, and correlates of occupational injuries among construction workers in Ilorin, Nigeria.Methods: A cross-sectional study was done with construction workers recruited from key daily labor assembly hubs in the Ilorin metropolis. Data were gathered using an interviewer-administered questionnaire derived from the International Labour Organization's Occupational Safety and Health Toolkit. Information on socio-demographic variables, job history, safety training, personal protective equipment (PPE) use, and occupational injuries over the previous 12 months was acquired. The data was examined using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression, with statistical significance defined at p < 0.05.Results: The incidence of occupational injuries was 61.2%. The most commonly reported injury categories were lacerations and falls. Lack of safety training, inconsistent usage of personal protective equipment (PPE), and longer work experience were all strongly associated with occupational injuries.Conclusion: Occupational injuries were common among construction workers in Ilorin, with various sociodemographic and work-related characteristics indicating strong relationships. These findings indicate key areas for occupational safety initiatives, emphasizing the importance of longitudinal research to uncover causal pathways.