Workplace respirable crystalline silica dust exposure among construction workers in Nigeria: Perception and awareness cross-sectional study

This study examines construction workers' awareness, knowledge, and protective practices regarding respirable silica dust exposure. It explores how demographic factors such as smoking status, age, work schedule, education, and region influence these aspects. A cross-sectional survey of 600 construction workers assessed silica dust awareness, control measures, and safety practices. Statistical analyses, including Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and ANOVA, were used to assess group differences. Results revealed significant differences based on demographics. Smokers had lower awareness of respirable crystalline silica (RCS) sources (U = 12,843.0, p = 0.018, d = 0.32) and its long-term health effects (U = 11,762.5, p < 0.001, d = 0.45). Workers aged 35–44 demonstrated better knowledge of dust exposure (H = 15.732, p = 0.001, η2 = 0.04) and higher PPE usage (F = 5.924, p = 0.002, η2 = 0.06). Higher educational qualifications were linked to increased awareness of silica-related risks (H = 10.351, p = 0.016, η2 = 0.03). The study highlights the need for targeted educational programs, enhanced safety measures, and region-specific interventions to reduce silica dust exposure. Tailored training and stricter policy enforcement can improve occupational health outcomes. Further research is needed to assess the effectiveness of these interventions.