Occupational Hazards and Chronic Health Outcomes Among Oil Drilling Workers in The Niger Delta, Nigeria

Abstract

The Niger Delta region remains one of the world's most significant oil-producing areas, yet occupational health risks associated with drilling operations remain inadequately characterised. The study adopted a quantitative research design, utilising a cross-sectional survey to obtain information on drilling operation hazards and chronic health outcomes. A total of 385 questionnaires were distributed to workers in the drilling section in oil and gas companies in the Niger Delta region. The data were collected and analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals, and multiple correspondence analysis. Results revealed that 63.4% of workers reported at least one chronic health condition, with skin conditions being most prevalent (24.9%), followed by respiratory problems (11.1%) and musculoskeletal disorders (8.9%). Multiple overlapping hazards showed that employment type influences the hazards to which workers are exposed. Contract workers are exposed to more noise pollution, while permanent workers complain about stress and mental health disorders. Age demonstrated the strongest association with health outcomes, with workers aged 55+ showing substantially elevated chronic health risk (OR = 27.50, 95% CI: 4.61-164.15) compared to those under 25 years. The Chi-Squared test of independence confirmed that the association between worker age and chronic health outcomes was statistically significant (χ² = 21.420, df = 4, p < 0.001). Gender was not significantly associated with health outcomes (p = 0.246). The urgent need for occupational health management programs should be implemented for drilling operations in the oil and gas industry in the Niger Delta region.