Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of sellers on occupational risk prevention of paint-based chemical products at the baluba market in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Abstract

Background: The marketing of paint-based chemical products in urban markets of Kinshasa raises major public health and occupational safety concerns. Sellers, often poorly informed about the risks associated with these products, are exposed to multiple health hazards, including chemical, biological, and radiological/nuclear (CBRN) risks.

Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of paint-based chemical product sellers regarding occupational risk prevention at the Baluba Market, Bandalungwa commune, Kinshasa.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from February 16 to July 16, 2024, among 75 sellers selected by non-probabilistic convenience sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews using a questionnaire guide, then analysed by descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages) with Excel 2010 and bivariate analysis (Pearson's Chi-square, Cramér's V) with SPSS 26.0. The acceptability criterion was set at 50%.

Results: The majority of respondents were men (65%), married (35%), with a mean age of 35 years. Secondary education level predominated (57%). While 97% of sellers recognized chemical risks, only 31% had received training on product hazards. Only 35% had adequate personal protective equipment (PPE). The main health problems reported were fatigue after inhalation (30%), abdominal pain (19%), headaches (16%), vomiting (12%), and dizziness (8%). Bivariate analysis revealed that education level (p = 0.028) and training received (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with the availability of adequate PPE. Identified CBRN risks included: chemical risks (exposure to solvents and VOCs, lack of labeling, inappropriate storage), biological risks (microbial proliferation, bacterial resistance), and potential radiological/nuclear risks (natural radionuclides in mineral pigments).

Conclusion: Baluba Market sellers have limited knowledge and inadequate safety practices, exposing them to significant occupational and CBRN risks. Training, awareness, and PPE provision programs are essential. CoE-CBRN/DRC and public structures are called upon to play a central role in managing these risks.

Keywords: knowledge, attitudes, practices, sellers, paints, occupational risks, CBRN risks, Baluba Market, Kinshasa.

Received Date: August 17, 2026

Accepted Date: September 09, 2026

Published Date: October 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/988