Prevalence of Adverse Health Effects among Municipal Solid Waste Workers, Southern Thailand

This study evaluated the prevalence of adverse health effects among municipal solid waste workers and described their socioeconomic situation and work characteristics. This cross-sectional descriptive study conducted with 114 municipal solid waste workers. They were recruited from workers who worked on 5 sanitary landfill areas in southern Thailand, between January and May 2017. Information was collected via a questionnaire. Data analysis comprised of descriptive and analytical components. The health problems noted with the study group over the period were musculoskeletal problems (65.8%), skin problems (58.8%), respiratory disease (47.4%), nail problems (45.6%), gastrointestinal problems (42.1%), and eye problems (20.2%). General characteristics, work type characteristics, the use of PPE, and the personal hygiene behavior of municipal solid waste workers were significantly associated with adverse health effects among these workers at P<0.05. There appears to be a strong correlation between waste disposal work and some health problems. The prevention and reduction of adverse health effects among municipal solid waste workers should include improving their education on how to reduce health risks while working.