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Journal : Open Access DRIVERset

Operational Bottlenecks and Challenges of Slaughterhouse Workers in Tamale Metropolis Ghana Asare, Solomon Ossom; Gyasi, Prince Kwadwo; Hassan, Okrah George; Abiodun, Ogwa Oluwafunmike
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 2 No 1 (2025): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v2i1.5024

Abstract

This study focused on assessing operational bottlenecks and challenges of slaughterhouse workers in Tamale metropolis Ghana. The research aims to provide insights into the distribution and intensity of various activities near within the abattoir, this including. Access to potable water for the washing of carcasses after processing is a challenge, Difficulty with disposal of solid waste which is far away from the abattoir, Availability drainage for liquid waste management in the slaughterhouse, the slaughterhouse is not shielded sufficiently to prevent the entry of pests, and Non-availability of fumigation activities as a pest control measure as well as Non-availability of separate areas for skinning /dehairing process of the carcass. The study aims to evaluate the operational bottlenecks and challenges of slaughterhouse workers in Tamale metropolis Ghana. The research employed several spatial analysis techniques, such as density mapping, and hotspot analysis, to assess the spatial patterns and relationships between the abattoir and its surrounding areas. The spatial analysis identified potential issues such as the presence of critical infrastructure in close proximity to the slaughterhouse. Thus, solution to those challenges.
Assessment of Biological Risk Exposure Among Hospital Housekeepers at Wukari Teaching Hospital Umaru, Isaac John; Asare, Solomon Ossom; Morgan, Akpan Usenobong; Umogbai, Debora Akinola; Olayemi, Abimbola Gbenga; Yeboah, Genevieve Akpah
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v2i3.8026

Abstract

Hospital housekeepers play a vital role in maintaining hygiene and preventing infections within healthcare facilities, yet they are frequently exposed to biological hazards such as bloodborne pathogens, respiratory droplets, and contaminated waste, often without adequate protection or training. In Nigeria, particularly in tertiary institutions like Wukari Teaching Hospital, limited resources and weak enforcement of safety protocols further increase the vulnerability of non-clinical staff. This study aimed to assess the level of biological risk exposure among hospital housekeepers and identify gaps in personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, hygiene practices, and institutional support. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 60 hospital housekeepers at Wukari Teaching Hospital, with stratified random sampling ensuring representation across departments including wards, emergency, surgery, and outpatient units. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, direct observation checklists, and key informant interviews with infection control officers, and variables assessed included demographic data, exposure history, PPE usage, hygiene practices, and training experience. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, while qualitative responses were thematically coded. Findings revealed that 78.3% of housekeepers had direct contact with biological waste in the past six months, with blood, sputum, and vomit being the most common contaminants; only 41.7% consistently used full PPE, and just 36.7% reported that PPE was always available. Hand hygiene compliance was observed in 58.3% of cases, while 65% of respondents had never received formal infection control training, and only 30% felt adequately protected at work, with a majority suggesting improvements such as regular training, better supervision, and increased PPE supply. The study concludes that hospital housekeepers at Wukari Teaching Hospital face substantial biological risks due to frequent exposure, inconsistent PPE usage, and inadequate training, highlighting the urgent need for institutional reforms including structured infection control education, reliable PPE provision, and strict enforcement of hygiene protocols to protect this essential workforce and ensure a safe and resilient healthcare environment.