Occupational Exposure to Repetitive Strain Injuries Among Construction Workers in Abuja

Construction workers are exposed to a range of occupational hazards including heavy lifting, vibration, repetitive motion, and forceful exertions that predispose them to repetitive strain injuries (RSI) and cumulative musculoskeletal disorders. The rapid urban construction expansion in the Federal Capital Territory presents a significant occupational orthopaedic health challenge. This cross-sectional analytic study examines the prevalence and risk determinants of repetitive strain injuries among construction workers in Abuja, North Central Nigeria. Using stratified random sampling, 250 workers from active construction sites across three area councils will be recruited. A structured questionnaire based on the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) will assess injury prevalence at multiple body regions, work task exposures, use of personal protective equipment, and access to occupational health services. Poisson regression will identify anatomical sites with the highest adjusted injury prevalence. The study hypothesises that the lower back, wrist, and knee are the most frequently affected regions. Findings will be communicated to site managers, the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, and the Ministry of Labour and Employment to support development and enforcement of construction site musculoskeletal safety regulations. This research provides important occupational orthopaedic data from one of Nigeria's fastest-growing construction environments. Keywords: repetitive strain injuries, construction workers, occupational health, Abuja, Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire.