Assessment of Biological Hazard Exposure Among Mortuary Workers in Imo State

Mortuary workers are among the most occupationally exposed groups to biological hazards including bloodborne pathogens, decomposition gases, and hazardous embalming chemicals, yet their occupational health remains largely unaddressed in Nigerian public health research. This study assessed biological hazard exposure and occupational health practices among mortuary workers in Imo State, South East Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive design was adopted, with 110 mortuary workers recruited from public and private mortuaries across Owerri Municipal and Mbaitoli local government areas. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire and a biological hazard exposure checklist. Results revealed that 82.7 percent of workers were routinely exposed to decomposing human remains without full biological protective gear, including face shields and fluid-resistant gowns. Self-reported needlestick injuries were reported by 47.3 percent of respondents. Hepatitis B vaccination coverage was only 34.5 percent among participants. Knowledge of standard precautions was adequate in only 39.1 percent. Chemical exposure from formaldehyde without respiratory protection was reported by 71.8 percent of workers. The absence of functional occupational health units and written hazard management protocols was documented across all facilities. This study strongly recommends mandatory biological safety training, hepatitis B immunization programs, hazard surveillance systems, and regulatory inspection frameworks specific to mortuary facilities in Imo State. Keywords: mortuary workers, biological hazards, bloodborne pathogens, occupational safety, Imo State.