Abstract

Cassava production and processing in Nigeria expose workers to multiple occupational hazards, compromising health, productivity, and livelihoods. This study comparatively analyzed occupational hazards and safety measures among Cassava farmers and processors in Akwa Ibom and Oyo States. Specifically, it identified the hazards faced, assessed the utilisation of safety measures, and examined the contribution of selected socio-economic characteristics to hazard prevalence. A quantitative survey design was employed, with 200 respondents in Akwa Ibom and 110 in Oyo selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage and mean) and multiple regression. Findings revealed that stress and fatigue (92.0%), insect bites (84.0%), and heat stress/dehydration (81.0%) were the most prevalent hazards, with higher musculoskeletal, skin, and respiratory problems reported in Akwa Ibom, and insect bites more common in Oyo. Safety measures such as PPE (85.2%), first-aid facilities (85.8%), and rest breaks (78.1%) were widely utilized, while participation in safety training (56.5%) and regulatory compliance (41.9%) were moderate to low. Regression analysis showed that sex (? = 0.215, p = 0.009) and household size (? = 0.198, p = 0.011) significantly predicted hazard prevalence (R² = 0.182, p < 0.01). The study concludes that gender roles and household composition influence occupational risk and recommends targeted, gender-sensitive training, strengthened regulations, and household-focused interventions to enhance safety in cassava value chains.

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