Background of the Study
Global temperature rise, a hallmark of climate change, is increasingly affecting occupational health across various industries. In Niger State, higher ambient temperatures have been linked to a range of occupational health hazards, particularly for workers engaged in outdoor activities such as agriculture, construction, and transportation. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to heat stress, dehydration, and heat-related illnesses, which adversely affect workers’ productivity and overall health (Aliyu, 2023). Elevated temperatures also exacerbate underlying health conditions and can impair cognitive and physical performance, increasing the risk of workplace accidents.
Workers in Niger State often face challenging conditions with minimal access to cooling facilities or adequate hydration, particularly in sectors that involve manual labor. The lack of effective occupational health and safety measures compounds these risks, leading to increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and, in severe cases, fatalities. Research indicates that workplaces with inadequate heat mitigation strategies are at higher risk of accidents and health emergencies (Bello, 2023). Furthermore, rising temperatures can interact with other environmental hazards, such as air pollution, thereby amplifying health risks and complicating the occupational health landscape (Ibrahim, 2024).
Despite the growing awareness of these risks, there is limited localized research that systematically examines how temperature rise influences occupational health hazards in Niger State. This study aims to assess the impact of increasing temperatures on workers’ health by analyzing workplace incident reports, health records, and conducting surveys among affected workers. The research will also explore the effectiveness of current occupational health and safety measures and identify gaps that need to be addressed. The findings are expected to inform policy recommendations and the development of targeted interventions to improve workplace safety and protect worker health in the context of a warming climate.
Statement of the Problem
Niger State is witnessing a significant rise in ambient temperatures due to climate change, which is having adverse effects on occupational health. Workers, especially those in outdoor and manual labor sectors, are increasingly exposed to extreme heat, leading to a higher incidence of heat stress, dehydration, and related health conditions (Aliyu, 2023). The existing occupational health and safety measures are often insufficient to protect workers from these hazards. As a result, the productivity and overall well-being of the workforce are compromised, and workplace accidents have become more frequent.
Moreover, the impact of temperature rise is compounded by inadequate infrastructure and limited access to heat mitigation resources such as cooling systems and potable water in work environments. This situation is particularly critical for vulnerable worker populations who may not have the economic means to secure additional protections. The lack of comprehensive data linking temperature rise to occupational health outcomes further hinders the development of effective workplace safety interventions. Without targeted strategies, the ongoing rise in temperature will continue to exacerbate occupational health risks, leading to higher rates of illness, accidents, and lost workdays, ultimately affecting the economic stability of Niger State (Bello, 2023).
This study aims to fill this knowledge gap by evaluating the influence of temperature rise on occupational health hazards in Niger State, thereby providing evidence-based recommendations for improving worker safety and health standards.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on outdoor and manual labor sectors in Niger State. Data will be collected from workplace records, health surveys, and worker interviews. Limitations include potential reporting bias and variability in workplace conditions.
Definitions of Terms
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