Radiation Hazard Identification and Risk Controls in Marine and Fisheries Research Laboratories in Kenya

Abstract

To ensure a safe and healthy work environment for employees, the Occupational Safety and Health Act 2007 was enacted in Kenya, and employers are required to comply with the act. Laboratory personnel are exposed to health hazards even with the safety measures in place. This study evaluated chemical health hazards among laboratory staff in Marine and Fisheries Research (MFRI) in Kenya. The aim of the study was to assess Occupational Safety and Health awareness, PPE usage and exposure to radiations on laboratory staff. The study employed cross-sectional research survey design. Structured questionnaires, observation, checklists, and analysis of radiation badges were used for data collection from the target population of 110 personnel from ten (10) laboratories. The data was analyzed using Statistical package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. The study found a significant positive relation between Occupational safety and Health awareness (r = 0.945 N = 97 P < 0.01), PPE Usage (r = 0.883 N = 97 P < 0.01), Exposure to radiation (r = 0.955 N = 97 P < 0.01) and exposure to radiations. The Analysis of Variance also depicted a strong positive relationship between OSH awareness, PPE usage, and exposure to radiation health risks. The study further revealed non-compliance to the set standards and lack of OSH awareness among staff. The radiation exposure was found to be 3 - 4 units which are within the WHO set limits of 20 units per year. The badges also revealed that there was risk of exposure in the long run, hence laboratory personnel should be continuously sensitized on OSH awareness and proper use of PPEs.