Work-related Threats in Timber Sheds within Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed work-related threats in timber sheds within Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State. For the purpose of this study, four major timber sheds were purposively sampled and visited out of six located in Makurdi. Five copies of questionnaires were administered in each timber sheds to give total of 20 copies administered. In addition to questionnaire, personal interview with target workers were conducted to find out occupational threats to life. Results showed that 93.75% of the respondents were males, while 6.25% were female. Number of accident victims among respondents was high (85.43%) and was localized within production areas (52.1%). The major source of accident was mostly the movement of log to mill (24.9%). The types of injuries recorded at the Timber sheds surveyed include: fracture (33.3%), laceration, sprain and strain (52.1%). Back and hands (16.68%) were the parts of the body mostly injured during operations within the timber shed. It is therefore concluded that employers should sensitize their workers on the occupational hazards common in timber shed business. Timber shed owners should provide and enforced the use of necessary protective materials for their workers to protect themselves against wood-work related injuries. Machine for lifting lumbers should also be provided for workers to overcome back and hands.