Local knowledge of risks associated with artisanal small-scale mining in Ghana

Abstract

Artisanal small-scale mining is associated with disease, injury, environmental and social risks. These risks negatively impact human health and the environment. This study assesses miners’ awareness and perceptions of the risks associated with their activity in three main districts in Ghana. Using the convenience sampling approach, 148 miners participated in the study in addition to key informant interviews and focus group discussions. The study revealed that the miners were generally not aware of the risks associated with their work. There were no statistically significant differences between the miners’ socio-economic characteristics and disease, environmental and social risks. However, the study showed significant differences between the miners’ level of education and awareness of injury risk. A common perception among 41% of the miners was that death in artisanal small-scale mining was normal. It is recommended that relevant state institutions empower miners through training and education to enhance their knowledge of risks.