Determinants of Occupational Health and Safety Practices of Informal Waste Pickers.

Abstract

Waste pickers are crucial to waste management in developing countries like Ghana, yet face challenges due to their practices. This study explores the determinants of occupational health and safety (OHS) practices among these workers, an unexplored area. Using a cross-sectional survey and stratified sampling, data were collected from 240 waste pickers. Results identified factors such as daily earnings (χ²(2) = 31.7, p < 0.000), origin (χ²(2) = 33.9, p < 0.003) and ethnicity (χ²(2) = 6.7, p < 0.037) affecting OHS practices. Waste pickers lack personal protective equipment (PPE) due to cost constraints, risking their health. Ethnic diversity contributes to OHS attitudes, priorities and acceptable work conditions. To improve OHS practices, recommendations include providing PPE training and access, creating supplementary income sources and ensuring safety equipment affordability. These measures will enhance waste pickers' well-being and workplace safety, addressing the challenges they face in their role within the waste management system.