KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE OF ERGONOMIC PRINCIPLES AMONG AUTO-MECHANIC WORKMEN – A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Background: Ergonomics, the science of aligning work environments with human capabilities, remains underemphasized in Nigeria’s informal auto-mechanic sector, where over 96% of workers train through apprenticeships that prioritize speed over safety. This study therefore assessed the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of ergonomic principles among auto-mechanic workmen in Benin City, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was used involving 384 auto-mechanic workmen with at least one year of experience, selected purposively from informal workshops in Benin City. Data on ergonomic KAP were obtained using an adapted questionnaire from a previous study. Participants sociodemographic characteristics and anthropometric parameters were collected. Data were summarized with descriptive statistics of means, standard deviations, frequencies, and percentages, while Chi-square test was employed to determine associations between KAP variables and selected socio-demographic factors at p ≤ 0.05. Results: Respondents were overweight (26.13 ± 4.01 kg/m²), while more than a third (44%) of respondents were aged 35–44 years). Most (88.5%) of the respondents lack knowledge of ergonomics, 80.5% lacked formal training, though 83.6–88.3% identified risks from awkward and repetitive tasks. Attitudes were positive with 74.1% of respondents agreeing that ergonomics should be part of practice. Most (93.8%) respondents valued stretching, while practices were moderate (81.0%) changed positions regularly; 90.1% ensured good lighting). Significant associations were observed between each of KAP variables (p < 0.05), with select demographics (Age, Years of work experience and Job type). Conclusion: Although ergonomic knowledge remains limited, most auto-mechanic workmen display positive attitudes and fair ergonomic practices. The associations among KAP domains underscores the potential of targeted ergonomic education, low-cost tool adaptations, and integrated apprenticeship training to reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders and enhance occupational health in Nigeria’s auto-mechanic sector in Benin City.