Perceived effects of occupational risk factors on fishing activities among fisherfolk in Ilaje, Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the perceived effects of occupational risk factors on fishing activities among fisherfolk in Ilaje, Southwestern Nigeria. A quantitative method of data collection was adopted for the study through the aid of a well-structured questionnaire/interview schedule. The descriptive research design of the survey type was used. A two-stage sampling procedure was used to select ninety (90) fishers from the study area. Data were analysed using descriptive (frequency count, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (chi-square). Findings from the study revealed that the major occupational risk factors affecting fishing activities in the study area were exposure to hazardous weather conditions (3.44), deteriorating mental health due to high stress levels associated with the uncertainty of catch and income (3.27), and risk of accident and injury due to adverse weather conditions (3.26). Similarly, the majority (90%) of the respondents indicated that the lack of financial support and subsidies makes it difficult to maintain their fishing business. Furthermore, the respondents agreed that only experienced fishermen can better navigate and identify risky fishing spots (4.34), regular boat maintenance prevents delays and ensures continuous fishing (4.31), and a lack of safety training increases the number of accidents at sea (4.30). It was concluded that a significant relationship existed between occupational risk factors and fishing activities in the study area (X = 47.575, P < 0.05). It was therefore recommended that wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensuring adequate rest can significantly reduce occupational risks among the fisherfolk