Alcohol consumption and work-related health problems: Exploring the perceptions of Nigerian informal automobile artisans

Abstract

Alcohol consumption is one of the principal factors that lead to work-related health problems worldwide. However, the nature and pattern of alcohol consumption among informal workers in developing countries are unknown. Using a qualitative method this study explores the perceptions of informal automobile artisans in Nigeria regarding alcohol consumption and its contribution to workplace health problems among the working population. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of 43 automobile artisans from Osun State. Thematic analysis was done using MAXQDA 2020 software. The artisans identified a range of alcohol-related injuries and illnesses. They described the severity of these work-related health problems (WHPs) as minor, serious, or very serious. Moreover, the study shows that alcohol consumption is rampant among the group. The artisans noted that alcohol consumption is one of the major causes of accidents and injuries among their members. They further explained that members imbibe alcohol to have the physical strength for their tasks. The study concluded that using the workplace as a platform to address alcohol consumption is critical to promoting a healthy and productive work environment.