The police work is a dangerous work. Hazards and risks loom from various
departments. These hazards include communicable diseases, and injuries. The work pressures
cause high blood pressure and stress. The occupational and health challenges of police work
stem from a combination of various risk factors depending on the nature of the duty/task. Each
officer responds differently to operational work and personal factors. Police work is not
homogenous in conditions and environment, neither are the officers in health responses. The
study examine the risk associated with police duties in Rivers State, Nigeria. Study adopted the
simple random sampling techniques. The instrument was a structured questionnaire
administered to 370 officers. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Results indicated
more police officers work in the department of operations, investigations and traffic, with
challenging working conditions. Minimum work load is 12 hours of duty. Majority of the work
force are in constant contact with members of the public. Officers fear communicable disease
and health conditions associated with public interaction as major causes of occupational injuries
and death. It is recommended that the police management incorporate the principles of health
and safety into operational policies and guidance of the Police Force. Safety and health
practices be enshrined in the police training programme and in refresher courses to ensure
conversancy and compliance.