Abstract
This study investigated the health risk assessment and impact of 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 five Local Government Areas (LGAs). Inferential statistics showed significant correlations among hazards and health outcomes, 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). Chi-square tests demonstrated significant associations between hazards such as burns (χ² = 18.12, p = 0.032), fire (χ² = 23.14, p = 0.019), respiratory issues (χ² = 22.41, p = 0.008), fatigue (χ² = 21.86, p = 0.007), and healthcare access. 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.