Objectives: To identify and assess the risks in the production unit of a peanut oil extraction plant in Senegal.
Methodology: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from May 30 to June 31, 2022 in the production unit of a peanut oil extraction plant in Ziguinchor. A multi-pronged questionnaire (socio-professional aspects, risk identification) and direct observation of work situations enabled the data to be collected. The level of risk for each of the identified risks was obtained by cross-referencing the rating of the criticality of the risk factor with the rating of the existence and effectiveness of the available means of prevention in order to establish a hierarchy of the identified hazards.
Results: Our study population (n = 69) was exclusively male, with an average age of 46.4 +/- 9.5 years, and 5.48 +/- 2.7 years. Individuals aged 56 to 60 were most represented (24.6%). The majority of workers were seasonal (88%). Workers were subjected to high and permanent noise levels, and the moving and hazardous parts of the machinery put 62.32% of the personnel at risk of injury and amputation. Dust cover was 30.43% of the workers and the risk of explosion fire was present. Shift work accounted for 85.5% of workers. Noise, hexane vapours and moving and hazardous parts of the machines had the highest ratings in the risk hierarchy.
Conclusion: The peanut oil extraction sector faces many risk factors. Beyond primary prevention, stronger occupational health and safety policies must be promoted.