Abstract

Introduction: Work-related injuries continue to be a major public health issue, as well as a primary source of disease, disability, and death. It is a severe public health issue with serious social and economic effects that may be avoided if adequate interventions are implemented.
Objective:This study aims to assess work-related injuries and Associated Factors among small-scale industry workers in woodworking enterprises in the Kirkos sub-city of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods:An institution-based cross-sectional study was being conducted from February to June 2023. For this study, 248 small-scale woodworking industry workers were included using a simple random sampling method. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews and an observational checklist. The variable with a significant association was identified on the basis of AOR with 95% CI and P<0.05.
Result:The prevalence rate of at least one occupational injury in the last 12 months was 102 (41.6%), 95% CI; (36.9 - 46.4). Among these the highest frequency of occupational injuries were hands 52 (51.8%), lower limbs (Leg) 16 (16.6%), skin burn and irritation 18(17.91) and finger 7 (7.06%) were the predominantly affected parts of the body. The study particiuses who had work experience or service duration less than 2 years [AOR=2.792(1.492, 5.226)], the working hours week more than 48 hours [AOR=2.221(1.414, 3.489)], had no safety training, [AOR=2.536(1.355, 4.748)], did not used PPE [AOR=3.285 (1.851, 5.832)] were more exposed to work-related injury as compared with their counter parts.
Conclusion and recommendation:The occupational injuries among workers in the small-scale woodworking industry were high in the study area compared to other studies. Hence, promoting occupational safety and health through appropriate prevention programs and the provision of comprehensive occupational health and safety services with the provision of personal protective devices and focused interventions for less experienced workers who work for 48 hours or longer is advised.

Keywords:Woodwork; Work-related injuries; Small-scale industry; Addis Ababa