AN ASSESSMENT OF OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD AND SAFETY PRACTICE AMONG MARKET TRADERS: A CASE STUDY OF ENGR. ABDULKADIR KURE MARKET MINNA, NIGER STATE

ABSTRACT Occupational health and safety remain critical challenges in the informal economic sector, particularly among market traders who often work in unregulated and unsafe environments. This study assessed occupational hazards and safety practices among market traders in Engr. Abdulkadir Kure Market, Minna, Niger State. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted, and data were collected from 365 traders selected using a stratified random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used to gather information on socio-demographic characteristics, types of occupational hazards, awareness of safety practices, and preventive measures adopted. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequencies, percentages, and chi-square tests at a 5% level of significance. The results revealed that traders are exposed to multiple occupational hazards, including exposure to sun or rain (15.6%), prolonged standing or sitting (14.8%), poor sanitation (14.8%), and lifting heavy loads (10.4%). The study found that 67.7% of respondents were aware of occupational health and safety practices, with awareness significantly associated with educational level (χ² = 16.42, p = 0.001). However, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) was low (35.9%), although it was significantly related to education (p = 0.005) and prior safety training (p < 0.001). The study concludes that while awareness of occupational hazards is relatively high, the adoption of safety practices among traders remains inadequate. It recommends regular health education, provision of affordable PPE, improved waste management systems, and strict enforcement of occupational safety policies by relevant authorities. Enhancing trader education and training is essential to bridge the gap between awareness and practice, thereby promoting a safer and healthier market environment. Keywords: Occupational hazards, safety practices, market traders, A.A. Kure Market, public health.