Assessment Of Knowledge And Use Of Personal Protective Equipment On Site Among Building Construction Workers

ABSTRACT Background: Recent improvements in safety performance have taken place as a result of combination of efforts of engineers, owners, contractors, subcontractors, and designers. Data from the (OSHA), shows that about two-thirds of workers, on average, constantly wear the correct (PPE) while the other third are at risk of injuries. Objective: The main aim of this study was to assess workers‟ knowledge level and use of on-site preventive equipment usage. Methods: A questionnaire was used to gather information on the ongoing Civil Aviation Academy, Shopping Mall and Hotel projects. Knowledge was assessed by the use of a simple questionnaire and scored. An assessment of the use of PPE‟s on the site was also conducted. This included availability and appropriateness of types of PPE, condition of use and acceptability by the workers. 150 respondents were sampled. Results: Majority (67.1%) of those interviewed had full knowledge on PPE and usage while (24.3%) had minimal knowledge. All the respondents use the available PPE on site. Although majority (78.6%) kept their PPE throughout work process, few (21.4%) removed their PPE while working. The major reasons why workers removed their PPE were uncomfortable (8.6%), poor fit of PPE (5.7%), inadequate training on appropriate use (5%) and reduction in productivity (2.1%). The most recognized potential hazard identified was falls (45.5%), others mentioned manual material handling (29. 9%) and dust inhalation (6.7%). Majority (77.9%) claimed that injuries were the most common health implications associated with their work if workers do not use the appropriate PPE while (12.1%) and (10%) mentioned noise induced hearing loss and skin dermatitis respectively. xv Conclusion: Majority (67.1%) of the respondents understood the need for PPE use and want to be protected against accidents, injuries and illnesses even though about one fourth of the workers had inadequate knowledge on PPE usage on site. Most of the respondents had inadequate knowledge on exposure to potential hazards as well as the health implications of non-use of the appropriate PPE on site.