SS36-02 INFORMAL E-WASTE PROCESSING AT AGBOGBLOSHIE, GHANA, AND THE WEST AFRICA-MICHIGAN CHARTER II FOR GEOHEALTH

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Abstract Introduction Large quantities of end-of-life electronics make their way into Agbogbloshie, one of the largest e-waste sites in the world where they are recycled by low-skilled low-wage workers as a form of livelihood. Workers use basic methods and tools in the recycling process that predisposes them to occupational health problems. This presentation will outline the processes involved in informal e-waste recycling in Agbogbloshie, Accra, Ghana, and highlight associated problems. Materials and Methods Field observations, worker interviews, dialogue with stakeholders and empirical studies conducted under the GEOHealth–II Project were used to detail the processes involved in informal e-waste recycling and associated occupational and environmental health challenges. Results E-waste processing in Agbogbloshie is unstructured, unregulated and involves collecting, sorting, and dismantling end-of-life electronics to recover valuable metal constituents. Occasionally, some collected electronics get refurbished and resold. Items such as electrical wires that cannot be dismantled are burnt in the open to recover copper. Personal protective equipment is seldomly used. The recycling methods used result in a high prevalence of physical injuries (96.2%) and musculoskeletal disorders (90%). Workers are also exposed to toxic substances and fumes during burning that cause eye and respiratory tract irritations. Spirometry data showed reduced lung function from particulate matter exposure. Conclusions Informal e-waste processing in Agbogbloshie is done using unsafe recycling methods that present numerous health challenges. Global health mitigation measures are urgently needed to address this occupational health menace.

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