Influence of Sawmill Industries on the Health of Sawmill Workers and Inhabitant of the Environment in Ondo State Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the influence of sawmill wastes on health among the sawmill workers and inhabitants of the environment in Ondo State Nigeria. A total of 240 respondents consisting of 110 sawmill workers and 130 inhabitants of residential areas around sawmills were drawn using accidental sampling technique. A validated self-structured questionnaire with reliability coefficient of 0.85 was used for the study. The data collected were analyzed using simple percentages and inferential statistics of t-test analysis. The findings of the study revealed that the respondents did not have knowledge and experience about the importance of health education, the safety gadgets, protective devices and environmental health aids equipment were not adequate, there was a significant difference in the awareness of wastes generated in the sawmills between the sawmill workers and the inhabitant of the residential areas, a significant difference in the awareness of diseases contracted in sawmills that can affect health, and a significant difference in the excessive exposure to loud noise. It is therefore recommended that wastes should not be burnt. Sawmills operators should be provided with protective shield and gloves, and be monitored to wear them regularly. First aid box and toilets should be provided.

DOI: 10.5901/jesr.2015.v5n2p299