Keyword: Occupational health

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Workplace stress among healthcare workers is a major occupational and public-health concern, yet post-pandemic evidence from Nigerian tertiary hospitals remains limited. This study assessed perceived stress, psychological distress and workplace stressors among healthcare workers in Abuja, Nigeria.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 340 clinical healthcare workers in two public tertiary hospitals. Perceived stress, psychological distress and workplace stressors were measured using validated and structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Spearman correlation and the Kruskal-Wallis test.
Results: Respondents were predominantly male (57.1%) and nurses/midwives formed the largest cadre (28.2%). The mean perceived-stress score was 25.5 ± 2.88; 36.2% reported high perceived stress and 63.8% reported moderate stress. Probable psychological distress was uncommon (6.8%; mean score 18.0 ± 3.1). Lack of essential equipment or supplies was the most frequently reported stressor (82.1% sometimes/often/always; mean 1.66 ± 0.9). Perceived stress was not significantly correlated with psychological distress (Spearman correlation coefficient = -0.031, p = 0.565). Only fear of litigation was significantly associated with higher perceived stress (Spearman correlation coefficient = 0.285, p = 0.01).
Conclusion: Healthcare workers reported elevated perceived stress, with organisational and resource-related conditions frequently reported. Probable psychological distress was uncommon and was not correlated with perceived stress. Interventions should target equipment and staffing shortages, medico-legal support and staff-wellbeing systems.

ABSTRACT: Notwithstanding notable advancements in occupational health and safety over the past century, occupational injuries and illnesses occur frequently worldwide. Mining is among the highest-risk occupational environments, exposing workers to acute and chronic health problems. This narrative review explores research evidence of different mining-related hazards, with a special focus on asbestos exposure. Mineworkers more commonly face biological, chemical, physical, ergonomics, and psychological hazards than other industries. Exposure to respiratory particles like silica and coal dust contributes to respiratory diseases like pneumoconiosis, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other lung diseases. Due to the physically demanding nature of the work and poor ergonomics, the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) occurring in soft tissues and surrounding body structures is high in mineworkers. Despite technological advancement and safety precautions, the mining industry remains a high-risk workplace with disproportionately higher rates of occupational injuries. Routine exposure to carcinogens results in a high risk of stomach and lung cancers. Chrysotile is the most used asbestos in the mining industry, causing asbestosis and mesothelioma. While some countries have introduced regulations to limit or phase out the use of asbestos, asbestos is still used in many countries. Studies are warranted to investigate the immediate and long-term health effects and potential risk factors. Essential preventive measures, consistent enforcement of safety standards, and accessible healthcare are essential to ensure overall well-being.