Assessment of Occupational Heat Stress Management Practices and Their Physiological Impact on Steel Workers at Ajaokuta Steel Company, Kogi State

Occupational heat stress in industrial settings represents a significant physiological and managerial challenge, particularly in tropical climates such as Nigeria's. This study assessed heat stress management practices and their physiological impact on steel workers at the Ajaokuta Steel Company in Kogi State, North Central Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, recruiting 120 workers from the smelting and rolling departments. Core body temperature was estimated using infrared tympanic thermometry, while heart rate, blood pressure, and sweat rate were measured at the start and end of work shifts. Wet Bulb Globe Temperature was recorded at multiple workstation points. Heat stress management practices including rest breaks, fluid intake policies, and use of cooling aids were documented through structured interview. Chi-square and paired t-tests were applied. Results showed that post-shift core temperature and heart rate were significantly elevated compared to pre-shift values. Wet Bulb Globe Temperature exceeded safe occupational limits in 68 percent of monitored workstations. Workers in departments with formalised heat management protocols had significantly lower physiological strain indices than those without. Only 31 percent of workers regularly used recommended cooling aids. The study concludes that existing heat management practices are insufficient to mitigate physiological strain in Ajaokuta steel workers. Evidence-based occupational heat management protocols, adequate hydration facilities, and mandatory cooling rest periods are recommended. Keywords: heat stress, steel workers, physiological strain, Ajaokuta, occupational health.