Bioaerosols, Noise, and Ultraviolet Radiation Exposures for Municipal Solid Waste Handlers.
Few studies have investigated the occupational hazards of municipal solid waste workers, particularly in developing countries. Resultantly these workers are currently exposed to unknown and unabated occupational hazards that may endanger their health. We determined municipal solid waste workers' work related hazards and associated adverse health endpoints. A multifaceted approach was utilised comprising bioaerosols sampling, occupational noise, thermal conditions measurement, and field based waste compositional analysis. Results from our current study showed highest exposure concentrations for Gram-negative bacteria (6.8 × 103cfu/m3) and fungi (12.8 × 103cfu/m3), in the truck cabins. Significant proportions of toxic, infectious, and surgical waste were observed. Conclusively, municipal solid waste workers are exposed to diverse work related risks requiring urgent sound interventions. A framework for assessing occupational risks of these workers must prioritize performance of exposure assessment with regard to the physical, biological, and chemical hazards of the job.
School of Health Systems and Public Health (SHSPH), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
France
0000-0003-0364-1754
F
Ncube
School of Health Systems and Public Health (SHSPH), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
Esper Jacobeth
EJ
Ncube
School of Health Systems and Public Health (SHSPH), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
Kuku
K
Voyi
D000391:Air Microbiology; D004391:Dust / Q000032:analysis*; D006358:Hot Temperature / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D009623:Noise, Occupational / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D016273:Occupational Exposure; D016272:Occupational Health / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012037:Refuse Disposal; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects*; D018505:Waste Management
D004391:Dust