Utilising the hierarchical hazard control model to reveal respiratory challenges faced by quarry and allied workers in Erongo, Otjozondjupa and Kunene regions, Namibia: A cross-sectional, quantitative study

The study examines respiratory protection practices among quarry and allied workers in Namibia, amidst rising concerns over occupational respiratory disorders due to prolonged exposure to respirable dust. Utilising a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected from 304 workers across Erongo, Otjozondjupa, and Kunene regions. Findings showed a statistically significant association between employee respiratory protection and employment status (χ2(1) = 7.592, p = 0.000), job category (χ2(9) = 37.742, p = 0.000), educational level (χ2(3) = 68.517, p = 0.000) and worksite (χ2(8) = 282.178, p = 0.001). There was a strong positive correlation between employee respiratory protection and worksite (r=0.7) at 99% CI (2-tailed) as well as a weak positive association between employee respiratory protection and age (r=0.142) at 95% CI). The findings underscore a critical gap in implementing effective engineering controls and training programmes, increasing risk of respiratory illnesses among workers. Recommendations include enhancing educational initiatives on respiratory safety, ensuring compliance with PPE provisions, and conducting regular medical evaluations to safeguard worker health and mitigate the risks associated with dust exposure.   Key words: Hierarchical hazard, respiratory diseases, quarry and allied workers.