Pages: (64-69 )
Abstract
Cassava constitutes an important staple food and source of carbohydrate in the tropical region of the world. There are various hazards associated with gari processing due to the rigorous methods involved. There is need to examine the various hazardous conditions faced by those processing gari with specific emphasis on their working conditions. The study assessed the hazards associated with gari processing. The major processing centres in Ibadan Metropolis were purposively selected. Questionnaire was administered to the total population of the workers involved in gari processing in both centres to investigate physical, ergonomic and biological hazards. All those involved in gari processing were female, most of who had primary school education and mean age of 43±13.8 years. Majority of the people processing gari were exposed to various hazards, which include knife cuts, heat stress, smoke inhalation, eye irritation and insect bites. Musculoskeletal disorders were the most recurring health issues experienced by the gari processing workers. These hazards are however, associated with various levels of health complaints by the gari processing workers. Therefore, there is the need to adequately educate those processing gari on strategies to reduce the risks of exposure to the associated hazards.
Keywords: Gari processing, hazards exposure, health complaints, cassava product,