Abstract

Introduction: Work-related injury is the main factor that contributes to disabilities and life threatening situations worldwide. Yet, there is a shortage of studies identifying the prevalence and its related risk factors in sub-Saharan African countries including Ethiopia, especially in the construction sector. This study assesses the prevalence of work-related injury and its associated risk factors among building construction workers in Arba Minch town, Southern Ethiopia.

Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Arba Minch town among building construction workers from March 30 to April 20, 2020. Simple random sampling technique was used to select the study subjects. The sample size was 459. A pretested and structured questionnaire and observational checklist was used to collect data. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors that contribute to occurrence of work-related injury.

Results: The overall prevalence of work-related injury among building construction workers was 43.02% (95% CI: (38.47%, 47.69%)) in the past one year. Work experience (AOR; 2.05, 95% CI: (1.19, 3.55)), sleep quality (AOR; 2.80, 95% CI: (1.67, 4.69)), safety practice (AOR; 1.70, 95% CI: (1.09, 2.63)), work hour (AOR; 1.86, 95% CI: (1.19, 2.92)), and workplace Supervision (AOR; 2.11, 95% CI: (1.29, 3.43)) were found to be significantly associated with work-related injury.

Conclusion: The prevalence of work-related injury among building construction workers in Arba Minch town is higher compared to other studies. Factors like work experience, sleep quality, safety practice, work hour, and workplace supervision had influence on the occurrence of work-related injury. Therefore, promoting occupational safety practice (including safe working environment and use of personal protective equipment), increasing workplace supervision, providing safety and health training for less experienced workers, respecting employees’ working hour, and improving workers sleep quality are recommended to prevent work-related injuries.

Keywords: Occupational injury; Construction sector; Occupational safety and health; Safety practice