DUSTY PRINT RESOURCES AND ITS HEALTH HAZARD ON LIBRARY STAFF

Abstract

This study examined the occupational hazards faced by library staff working with dusty print resources in Bayero University Library, Kano. Four research questions guided the study. The research design was a survey. Population of the study comprised Bayero University Library staff with over ten years of working experience totaling 140. Simple random sampling technique was used to select ninety respondents according to their years of working experience. Questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection. It was designed on a four point scale with 17 items. Data collected were analyzed using simple descriptive statistical frequencies, percentages and figures presented in tables according to the research questions that guided the study. The study found that over-exposure of print resources to dust can cause irritation of eyelids, redness of the eye, tearing and pain in the eyes, runny nose, sneezing, coughing, nasal irritation and skin infection to library staff who handle dust infested print resources. The study also found that library staff were not provided with the safety measures that will shield them from these health occupational hazards.  The studies therefore recommend that library staff should be provided with personal protective equipment, library windows and doors with a dust-proof net.