Occupational Hazards And Safety Practices Among Hospital Workers At Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Ridge

ABSTRACT Introduction: Healthcare facilities like other work places are characterized by a high level of exposure to occupational hazards which could significantly endanger the safety and health of workers, and impact on the rate of occupational injury and infections among hospital workers. Traditionally, healthcare workers are viewed as professionals who are capable of maintaining their health without assistance. Hospitals and health institutions were also considered to be safer than other working environment. Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the occupational hazards and safety practices among hospital workers at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional study employed the simple random sampling method to select 246 respondents. A structured questionnaire was designed and administered to study participants. Data collected from respondents were entered into MS EXCEL for organization, and analyzed using STATA version 14. Results: The study found high knowledge and awareness of occupational hazards and safety among the hospital workers. There was positive attitude towards occupational safety practices. However, there was presence of occupational injuries and illnesses among healthcare workers. Conclusion: The development and implementation of an effective occupational health policy to guide hospital workers is imperative.