Knowledge of the Health Implications of Generator Fumes on Traders of Uselu Market
CHAPTER ONE
- Research Objectives
The main objective of the research is to examine the knowledge of the health implications of generator fumes on traders of Uselu market, and the specific objectives are to:
- Assess the current level of knowledge among traders in the Uselu market regarding the health implications of generator fumes
- Identify the factors influencing the level of knowledge about generator fumes’ health effects among traders:
- Determine the effectiveness of existing awareness campaigns and educational initiatives on generator fumes’ health implications
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
Conceptual Review
Components of an Exhaust
Gasoline and diesel fuels are mixtures of hydrocarbon compounds which contain hydrogen and carbon atoms. In a “perfect” engine, oxygen in the air would convert all the hydrogen in the fuel to water and all the carbon in the fuel to carbon dioxide. Nitrogen in the air would remain unaffected. Although in reality, the combustion process cannot be “perfect,” and automotive engines emit several types of pollutants. Typically, engine combustion results in the following: FUEL + AIR → UNBURNED HYDROCARBONS + NITROGEN OXIDES + CO + CO2 + WATER (United States Air and Radiation, 2011).
The production of CO is also subject to the engine maintenance and nature of the fuel used (United States Air and Radiation, 2011). It was observed that properly maintained engines and modern vehicle engines have reduced CO production as newer gasoline formulations and better, more efficient exhaust emission controls are always found (Mott et al., 2002).
Carbon monoxide (CO) is one of the most common and widely distributed air pollutants in the world. It is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas with poor solubility in water and a slightly lower density than air (United States AQC, 2000). Carbon monoxide was known since ancient times, when Greeks and Romans used it to execute criminals. The death of two Byzantine emperors was related to CO produced by the burning of coal in braziers, the usual method of indoor heating during the epoch (Lascaratus et al., 1998). The gas was first prepared by the French chemist de Lassone in 1776, who mistakenly considered it to be hydrogen because of its blue flame.
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research Design
This study will employ an explanatory research design to collect data on the analysis of the knowledge of the health implications of generator fumes on traders of Uselu market. The explanatory research design is developed with the main purpose of investigating phenomenon which had not been studied before or has not been properly explained in previous studies (Baskerville, 2015). It is targeted towards providing details about where to discover small amount of information. The research design is adopted because it explains why phenomena occur and predict future occurrences around the variables used in this research.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
Demographics details of respondents
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study aimed to assess the knowledge of traders in Uselu market regarding the health implications of generator fumes and identify factors influencing their knowledge and behavior in response to existing awareness campaigns and educational initiatives. The findings revealed a moderate level of awareness among traders regarding the general health issues associated with prolonged exposure to generator fumes, such as respiratory problems and cardiovascular disorders. However, specific health effects, including headaches, dizziness, and eye/throat irritation, were less widely known.
Access to reliable information played a significant role in shaping traders’ knowledge, with those having easy access to information through pamphlets, posters, or educational materials demonstrating higher knowledge levels. Peer influence also had a moderate impact on knowledge acquisition, where traders positively influenced by peers discussing generator fumes’ health effects showed a greater propensity to seek information and take necessary precautions. The effectiveness of existing awareness campaigns and educational initiatives varied among traders. While some reported these initiatives as relevant, informative, and helpful in increasing knowledge, a substantial number disagreed, indicating that the current campaigns may not be uniformly effective in educating all traders. Similarly, the impact on behavioral changes varied, with some traders adopting safety measures, while others remained unmotivated.
Conclusion
this study provided valuable insights into the knowledge of traders in Uselu market regarding the health implications of generator fumes and the factors influencing their awareness and behavior. The findings revealed a moderate level of general awareness among traders about the health issues associated with prolonged exposure to generator fumes. However, specific health effects were not as widely known, indicating a need for more targeted educational efforts.
Access to reliable information played a crucial role in shaping traders’ knowledge, emphasizing the significance of accessible and informative resources such as pamphlets, posters, and educational materials. Additionally, the influence of peers was found to have a moderate impact on knowledge acquisition, underscoring the potential for peer-led discussions and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
The study also assessed the effectiveness of existing awareness campaigns and educational initiatives. While some traders reported these efforts as relevant, informative, and successful in increasing their knowledge about generator fumes’ health effects, a substantial number disagreed. This disparity highlights the importance of continuous evaluation and improvement of awareness campaigns to ensure their effectiveness and reach a wider audience. Moreover, the impact of existing campaigns on behavioral changes varied among traders. While some embraced safety measures to minimize their exposure to generator fumes, others remained unaffected. Therefore, it is evident that a one-size-fits-all approach may not be sufficient, and personalized strategies are essential to motivate traders to take necessary precautions for their health.
In light of the study’s findings, it is recommended that stakeholders, including government health agencies, market authorities, and health professionals, collaborate to design and implement targeted awareness campaigns and educational initiatives. These efforts should focus on providing specific information about the health implications of generator fumes, fostering peer-led discussions, and ensuring the relevance and effectiveness of the disseminated information.
By enhancing traders’ knowledge and encouraging positive behavioral changes, this collaborative approach can contribute to improved health outcomes and the well-being of traders in Uselu market. Furthermore, the study underscores the broader significance of raising awareness about environmental health hazards in local markets, advocating for the health of traders and the community as a whole.
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