Assessment of Particulate Matter Exposure and Respiratory Symptoms among Street Sweepers in the Southwest Nigeria

Introduction: Street sweepers are exposed to high levels of particulate matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₠₀), which are associated with respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and reduced lung function. In Nigeria, poor workplace protection and inadequate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) exacerbate these health risks. This study assessed PM exposure and its effects on respiratory symptoms among street sweepers in Lagos, Ekiti, and Oyo states in southwest Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 563 street sweepers across the study locations. PM₂.₅ and PM₠₀ concentrations were measured at the breathing level using digital particulate monitors (PMS5003), while respiratory symptoms were assessed through structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 27, using descriptive and inferential statistics to examine the relationship between PM exposure and respiratory health. Results and Discussion: Results showed that the PM₂.₅ and PM₠₀ concentrations in all states exceeded WHO safety thresholds, with mean PM₂.₅ levels of 135 µg/m³ (Ekiti), 94 µg/m³ (Lagos), and 71 µg/m³ (Oyo). The prevalence of respiratory symptoms was high, with 17.2% reporting persistent cough, 19.9% experiencing wheezing during cold, and 16.0% reporting shortness of breath. The majority of the participants were female (98.8%), had low educational attainment, and worked long hours, increasing their vulnerability. The findings align with global studies that attribute these health risks to inadequate workplace protection and poor PPE usage. Conclusions and Recommendations This study highlights the urgent need for interventions to improve the occupational health of street residents. Recommendations include mandatory PPE usage, regular health screenings, mechanized cleaning methods, and workplace safety training. Implementing these measures will reduce respiratory health risks and align with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8, ensuring safer working conditions for vulnerable workers in Nigeria.