Abstract
This study examined perceived influence of health risk assessment on occupational hazards among cryogenic workers in Rivers State. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed, using a structured questionnaire administered to 385 cryogenic workers selected through stratified random sampling across the study area. Results indicated frequent exposure to burns (57.2%), frostbite (59.7%), pressure-related injuries (66.2%), chemical exposure (62.3%), and fire hazards (67.6%), with 55.9% reporting work-related health issues. Descriptive findings further revealed high prevalence of respiratory problems (59.7%), skin irritations (57.1%), headaches (52%), neurological symptoms (52%), fatigue (57.2%), and overall health decline (54.6%). Inferential statistics showed significant correlations among including burns and frostbite (r = .412, p < 0.01), respiratory problems and skin irritations (r = .542, p = 0.001), and a negative association between emergency preparedness and adverse health outcomes (r = –.283, p < 0.05). Health Risk Assessment (HRA) results further revealed high exposure levels and hazard quotients (HQ) for most variables, with unacceptable risk observed for exposure to low temperatures (HQ = 1.34), handling cryogenic liquids and gases (HQ = 1.30), knowledge of acceptable exposure limits (HQ = 1.23), awareness of exposure duration (HQ = 1.19), experienced symptoms (HQ = 1.10), use of protective measures (HQ = 1.09), following exposure procedures (HQ = 1.09), and confidence in monitoring and emergency systems (HQ = 1.25). Acceptable risk was recorded for workplace oxygen deficiency hazard monitoring (HQ = 0.97) and undergoing medical checkups (HQ = 0.84). Overall, the findings indicate that while cryogenic workers demonstrate moderate awareness of occupational hazards, exposure levels often exceed acceptable limits, highlighting the need for strengthened preventive measures, improved safety practices, and enhanced occupational health interventions.