Effectiveness Of Safety Guards in The Reduction of Occupational Injuries Among Construction Workers in Delta State, Nigeria

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@article{1722143,
      author = {Adetona, Oluwatosin Victoria, John N. Ugbebor, Victor Amah},
      title = {Effectiveness Of Safety Guards in The Reduction of Occupational Injuries Among Construction Workers in Delta State, Nigeria},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2026},
      volume = {10},
      number = {2},
      pages = {561-581},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1722143.pdf},
      abstract = {The construction industry remains one of the most hazardous sectors globally, with consistently high rates of occupational fatalities and injuries. Despite advancements in safety technologies and regulatory frameworks, construction workers continue to face serious risks including falls, machinery accidents, and exposure to hazardous materials. Safety guards serve as critical protective measures, yet their effectiveness in reducing injuries varies considerably across construction sites. This study assessed the effectiveness of safety guards in reducing the frequency and severity of occupational injuries among construction workers in Delta State, Nigeria. Specifically, it examined the types of safety guards used, factors influencing workers' adherence to safety protocols, the effectiveness of safety guards in injury reduction, and challenges encountered in their implementation. A cross-sectional quantitative design was employed, involving 388 construction workers, site supervisors, safety officers, and technical personnel from selected construction sites in Delta State. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Machine guards, edge protection, scaffold guardrails, perimeter fencing, and handrail systems were the most commonly used safety guards (mean = 3.1). Factors significantly influencing adherence included management commitment (mean = 3.1), safety training (mean = 3.1), effective supervision (mean = 3.1), and strict enforcement (mean = 3.1). Safety guards were perceived as effective in reducing occupational injuries (grand mean = 3.0), with 75% of respondents rating them as effective. However, challenges including high equipment costs (mean = 3.1), insufficient training (mean = 3.0), and lack of management commitment (mean = 3.0) hindered implementation. Educational level (p = 0.016), job role (p = 0.013), and years of experience (p = 0.034) significantly influenced safety guard usage. Safety guards are effective in reducing occupational injuries among construction workers, but their optimal utilization requires addressing systemic challenges including cost barriers, training deficits, and enforcement gaps. Comprehensive organizational support and continuous monitoring are essential for sustained injury prevention.},
      keywords = {Safety Guards, Occupational Injuries, Construction Workers, Delta State, Nigeria, Occupational Health and Safety},
      month = {August},
      doi = {https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV10I2-1722143}
  }