Prevalence of Physical Hazards in Public Primary Schools in South-West Nigeria

Abstract:

Aim: Physical hazards (PHs) in the school environment compromise health of primary school children worldwide. Thus the study investigated the prevalence of physical hazards in public primary schools in South-West Nigeria.

Methods: The study was a cross-sectional survey that involved the selection of 456 teachers from 30 selected Public Primary Schools using a 4-stage random sampling technique. Data were collected through an observational checklist and a semi-structured questionnaire. The observational checklist included a 26-point scale for measuring prevalence of PHs (associated with structures, facilities and school environment) while the questionnaire elicited information on the pattern of occurrence of PHs. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square test at p≤0.05. 

Results: Respondents’ mean age was 47.3 ±6.7 years and 87.9% were females. Some (16.7%) of the schools observed were moderately hazardous and 83.3% were highly hazardous. The forms of PHs in schools included sharp objects (93.3%), leaking roof (90.0%), fields with potholes/stones (90.0%), broken windows (86.7%) and broken chairs/desk (80.0%). Injuries experienced by pupils’ included falls (50.9%) and cut/laceration (46.9%), of which 70.8% of all injuries occurred during break period. Majority (80.7%) disclosed that more male than female pupils were affected by PHs. 

Conclusions: The finding shows that physical hazards are prevalent in primary schools. Therefore, school health policy should aim at improving the physical environment.  

Keywords: Physical hazards, Public primary schools, School health policy, School environment, Environmental hazards, School injuries, Prevalence, Building condition, Physical environment, Teachers