Occupational health problems of municipal solid waste management workers in India

Aims: The present study aimed to assess the occupational health problems of municipal solid waste management workers. Material and Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among solid waste management workers of Kerala, India. All workers (408) were included the study of which 313 (77%) participated. Data were collected by direct interview and clinical examination using a structured questionnaire. The observed morbidity like respiratory diseases, eye diseases, dermatological problems and nail infections were elicited by clinical examination. The point prevalence of other occupational related health events present either during the study time or during 1 month recall period and that occurred ever after entry in present occupation was collected by self-reported complaints and doctors diagnoses. Results: The mean age was 42.5 ± 7.2 years. The observed morbidity like respiratory diseases, eye diseases, dermatological problems, nail infections were high ranged from 21% to 47%. The reported prevalence of occupation related morbidities like falls (63.6%), accidents (22%), injuries (73.2%), and water-vector borne disease (7.1%) were high. The current prevalence of musculoskeletal morbidities showing that all major joints are involved (17-39%). Conclusions: The work related health-problems were reported to be high. The prevalence of Respiratory, dermatological, eye problems and injury, musculoskeletal problems were reported to be high among municipal solid work handlers. Measures are needed to improve the work environment of waste handlers by ensuring availability protective gears based on ergonomic principles, clean drinking water and washing and sanitation facilities during working hours.