Health problems of automobile mechanics in Nigeria

A questionnaire-based survey was conducted among automobile mechanics and allied technicians in a semiurban city. Three hundred people were interviewed. The questionnaire sought information on health problems associated with work, the presence of chronic illness and where workers seek help when they fall ill. The interview was followed by an examination of the hands for dermatitis. Musculoskeletal disorders were the commonest work-related health problems reported by respondents. Of the 50 respondents who recorded musculoskeletal disorders, 27 (54%) had low back pain. Seventy-five (25%) of the respondents had signs of hand dermatitis: commonest among panel beaters and welders. Hand dermatitis and musculoskeletal disorders are the predominant health problems among automobile mechanics. Recommendations for improved health and safety include health education programmes aimed at eliminating hazardous work practices such as sucking of petrol and poor lifting techniques. This study has shown that workers in small-scale industries are willing to accept assistance and advice on improving the health and safety of their workforce.