ASSESSMENT OF HEALTH RISKS AND PREVENTION PRACTICES ASSOCIATED WITH MEDIUM DENSITY FIBREBOARD (MDF) DUST EXPOSURE AMONG FURNITURE CRAFTSMEN IN KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the health risks and prevention practices related to exposure to mediumdensity fibreboard (MDF) dust among furniture craftsmen in Katsina State, Nigeria. The research focused on 186 micro-scale furniture factories, including 168 furniture craftsmen and 18 factory managers from three senatorial zones of Katsina State. The sample consisted of 127 respondents, comprising 113 furniture craftsmen and 14 factory managers, selected using the sampling table by Krejcie and Morgan (1970). The study utilised a descriptive survey design and a 26-item structured questionnaire titled "Health Risks Assessment and Prevention Practices Questionnaire (HERAPPQ)" for data collection. This validated questionnaire included sections on general data, potential health risks, and safe practices related to MDF dust exposure, with responses collected on a five-point Likert scale. Two null hypotheses were tested at a 0.05 level of significance. Data analysis using z-tests revealed significant differences in both hypotheses, indicating that factory managers are more aware of health risks than furniture craftsmen, and there are differing views on the implementation of safe practices. Findings emphasize the need for targeted educational and training programmes to improve awareness and adherence to safe practices among furniture craftsmen. Recommendations include comprehensive training programmes on the health hazards of MDF dust, the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and the establishment and enforcement of rigorous workplace safety policies. These measures aim to ensure the health and safety of all workers exposed to MDF dust.

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