Health problems among workers who recycle electronic waste in southern Thailand

Abstract

Objectives: This study evaluated the prevalence of adverse health effects among recycling facility workers, and described their socioeconomic situation, health symptoms and work characteristics. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted by interviewing 71 workers in 20 electronic waste (e-waste) recycling facilities in southern Thailand. Data were collected by questionnaire. Risk factors were evaluated using multiple logistic regression analysis. Results: Recycling facility workers with blurred vision were significantly associated with being male (p = 0.035), over 40 years old (p = 0.020), and having ≤ secondary school education (p = 0.017). Rash/ itching was associated with being male (p = 0.011), over 40 years (p = 0.018), having ≤ secondary school education (p = 0.012). not using a cloth mask (p = 0.019), not using gloves (p = 0.028), not washing hands before lunch (p = 0.005), not cleaning clothes daily (p = 0.025), and not having established ventilation systems in the place of work (p = 0.018). Hand-and-feet numbness were associated with being male (p = 0.025), and being over 40 years (p = 0.023). Headaches were associated with being male (p = 0.028). Conclusion: Personal hygiene is important for this occupational group, and it should be emphasized in education programs.