Reduction of Occupational Risks Associated with the Informal Collection of Recyclable Materials in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Abstract

Recyclable material collectors in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, walk long distances while carrying heavy loads in simple wheat bags. This action research study aims at reducing adverse health effects caused by their occupation. A pilot project with three collectors was established and an onsite risk assessment and individual interviews were performed. Accepted European risk evaluation methods and expert knowledge were applied to find out the demand for improvements. Working equipment was designed with participation of the collectors. During the process the methodological approach had to be revised to increase participation of the target group in order to reach the goal to develop sustainable, accepted safety interventions. A continuous process of field testing and adjustments leads to the final solution. Recyclable collectors face musculoskeletal burdens due to carrying activities as well as back injuries caused by sharp items and leaking hazardous substances. Acknowledged risk assessment methods were a means to find out the demand for safety interventions. For the design of accepted solutions appropriate for the specific work environment and needs of the workers practical, participatory approaches involving the target group were successful. Combining these two methods lead to the development of simple backpacks that can alleviate physical burdens of recyclable collectors and other persons carrying heavy loads. Staying flexible to adjust strategies is crucial for successful active research projects which aim at contributing to development and have to rely on target group participation to obtain accepted solutions.