PERCEIVED EFFECT OF NON-COMPLIANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTHSAFETY MEASURES AMONG WORKERS IN GENERAL HOSPITALIN ONDO TOWN

Abstract

This study was carried out to investigate the perceived effect of non-compliance with public health safety measures among
workers in General Hospital in Ondo Town. Descriptive research of the survey type was adopted for this study. 455 respondents
were sampled for the study (including doctors, nurses, laboratory scientists, and hospital attendants) and were selected using
purposive sampling. A structured questionnaire validated by experts was used for data collection. Data were analysed using
inferential statistics of Chi-square (χ²) at 0.05 alpha level. The findings of the study revealed the following: Biological hazards
were significantly perceived as effects of non-compliance (Cal χ² = 207.03 > Tab χ² = 16.92); Chemical hazards were
significantly perceived as effects of non-compliance (Cal χ² = 282.33 > Tab χ² = 16.92); Physical hazards were also
significantly perceived as effects of non-compliance (Cal χ² = 282.33 > Tab χ² = 16.92). Based on these findings, it was
concluded that health workers in Selected Hospitals in Ondo Town are at increased risk of exposure to various occupational
hazards due to non-compliance with public health safety measures. It is therefore recommended that the hospital management
should ensure strict enforcement of safety protocols, provide regular training on hazard prevention, and make personal
protective equipment (PPE) readily available and mandatory for use. Establishing a strong culture of safety within the hospital
will help safeguard health workers and enhance quality patient care.