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International Journal of
Medical and Health Research
ARCHIVES
VOL. 12, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Relationship between health risk assessment and exposure to occupational hazards among cryogenic staff in Port Harcourt metropolis
Authors
Gabriel Pepple J, Iyama W A, Osaro B O, Gobo A E
Abstract
This study investigated the relationship between health risk assessment and occupational hazards among cryogenic staff Port Harcourt metropolis. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed, using a structured questionnaire administered to 385 cryogenic staff selected through stratified random sampling across Port Harcourt metropolis. Results indicated frequent exposure to burns (57.2%), frostbite (59.7%), pressure-related injuries (66.2%), chemical exposure (62.3%), and fire hazards (67.6%), with 55.9% reporting work-related health issues. Descriptive findings further revealed high prevalence of respiratory problems (59.7%), skin irritations (57.1%), headaches (52%), neurological symptoms (52%), fatigue (57.2%), and overall health decline (54.6%). Inferential statistics showed significant correlations among hazards and health outcomes, including burns and frostbite (r = .412, p < 0.01), respiratory problems and skin irritations (r = .542, p = 0.001), and a negative association between emergency preparedness and adverse health outcomes (r = –.283, p < 0.05). Health Risk Assessment (HRA) results further revealed high exposure levels and hazard quotients (HQ) for most variables, with unacceptable risk observed for exposure to low temperatures (HQ = 1.34), handling cryogenic liquids and gases (HQ = 1.30), knowledge of acceptable exposure limits (HQ = 1.23), awareness of exposure duration (HQ = 1.19), experienced symptoms (HQ = 1.10), use of protective measures (HQ = 1.09), following exposure procedures (HQ = 1.09), and confidence in monitoring and emergency systems (HQ = 1.25). Acceptable risk was recorded for workplace oxygen deficiency hazard monitoring (HQ = 0.97) and undergoing medical checkups (HQ = 0.84). The findings indicate that while cryogenic staff demonstrate moderate awareness of occupational hazards, exposure levels often exceed acceptable limits, highlighting the need for strengthened preventive measures, improved safety practices, and enhanced occupational health interventions.
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Pages:51-59
How to cite this article:
Gabriel Pepple J, Iyama W A, Osaro B O, Gobo A E "Relationship between health risk assessment and exposure to occupational hazards among cryogenic staff in Port Harcourt metropolis". International Journal of Medical and Health Research, Vol 12, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 51-59
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