Environmental Awareness and Health Assessment in Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining of Sibutad, Zambaonga Del Norte

Abstract

Mining is considered a complex, energy-intensive industry, as seen by the global insurance market. The complexity of the industry from the insurers’ perspective is based on the broad scope of loss potential, or health risk. In this study, the researchers wanted to determine the environmental awareness and health assessment in artisanal and small-scale gold mining in Libay, Sibutad, Zamboanga del Norte. The result revealed the majority of the miners and ball mill operators were not totally aware of their health risks due to prolonged mercury exposure. It seems that most of the methods used by ball mill operators appeared to be hazardous both to the worker and the environment. Thus, there is a need to regulating small-scale mining activities which may include licensing/registration and strict compliance of safety measures to small-scale mining. Lastly, miners and ball mill operators should be encouraged to submit themselves for blood sampling for mercury analysis