ABSTRACT
Background: Chemical hazards produced in the process of quarrying stones include heavy metals like lead, nickel, cadmium and some of them can cause heavy metal poisoning in humans. This study assessed the heavy metals levels in dust samples and hygiene practices in stone quarries in Gusau metropolis.
Methods: In this study, a cross-sectional study was conducted among quarry workers in Gusau metropolis between August and September 2022. Systematic sampling technique was used to select 307 respondents. Data was collected using interviewer-administered questionnaire (ODK) and analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25. Dust samples were collected in the quarries (quarry and administrative areas) and sent for heavy metal analysis in National Research Institute and Chemical Technology (NARICT), Zaria.
Results: The heavy metals levels in dust in the work and administrative areas were all below the maximum permissible level. Over two-thirds, 209 (68.1%) of the respondents take bath always, one-third, 92 (30.0%) of the respondents take bath sometimes and six (1.9%) of the respondents never take bath both before and after work. Almost all the respondents 302 (98.4%) had never used a uniform in the quarry, although, five (1.6%) of them designated some clothing as uniform sometimes. Only about one-sixth, 47 (15.3%) of the respondents avoid food or drink at work areas.
Conclusions: This study revealed tolerable levels of all the heavy metals assessed in the workplaces but, poor hygiene practices among the quarry workers in Gusau. The quarry employers should ensure periodic training and education of the workers on good hygiene practices.
Keywords: Quarry, dust, heavy metal, hygiene, Gusau
How to cite: Shehu A, Raji MO, Ka’oje AU, Alhassan Y, Bello MM, Akogwu HS, Daninna MZ, Abdul’aziz MD,
Attahiru A, Bello MB, Apanisile OS, Abulfathi AA, Bukar FL. Assessment of Heavy Metals in Dust Samples and Hygiene Practices among Stone Quarry Workers in Gusau, Zamfara State, Northwest Nigeria. Global Professional Multidisciplinary Practices Journal. 2024; 1(3):24-37
HEAVY METALS AND HYGIENE PRACTICES IN GUSAU
