Risk Perception of Occupational Hazards Among Plumbing and Pipe-Fitting Workers in Enugu State

Plumbing and pipe-fitting workers are exposed to chemical, ergonomic, and physical occupational hazards, yet risk perception in this informal trade group remains poorly studied in Nigerian literature. This study assessed risk perception of occupational hazards among plumbing and pipe-fitting workers in Enugu State, South East Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed, with 145 workers recruited from artisan markets and construction sites in Enugu metropolis. The Occupational Risk Perception Scale was adapted and administered alongside a structured questionnaire assessing exposure history, injury incidents, and protective practices. Results revealed that 64.1 percent of respondents exhibited low risk perception scores, particularly regarding chemical fume exposure and repetitive strain injury risks. Previous injury experience was reported by 59.3 percent of workers, with cuts, falls, and chemical burns being the most frequent types. A significant inverse relationship was identified between risk perception and both injury history and PPE non-use (p less than 0.05). Formal occupational safety training had not been received by 87.6 percent of participants. Age, educational attainment, and years of experience were positively associated with higher risk perception scores. The study recommends the development of hazard communication campaigns tailored to informal construction trade workers, integration of occupational safety into vocational plumbing training curricula, and establishment of hazard reporting channels at major construction project sites in Enugu State. Keywords: risk perception, plumbing workers, occupational hazards, informal sector, Enugu State.