Background: In rapidly urbanizing cities of developing countries such as Ghana, the
quantity of solid waste (SW) generated from various activities have increased over the
years, and managing municipal solid waste (MSW) has become both an important
economic activity as well as an issue of public health concern due to its associated health
hazards. Although some studies have reported decreased pulmonary function and an
increased prevalence of certain respiratory symptoms, there is still very little information
on the magnitude of the adverse effects such exposures have on municipal solid waste
workers in Ghana, with regards to respiratory health and dermatological (skin) condition.
Objective: The main objective of this study was to assess the respiratory health and
dermatological conditions in municipal solid waste workers of Zoomlion, Ghana Limited
in the Tema.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from among 105 workers of
the Tema District Office of Zoomlion, Ghana Limited. The respiratory health and
dermatological conditions of the different categories of workers; sweepers, collectors,
transporters and administrative staff who sometimes serve as field supervisors were
assessed using questionnaires, direct skin examination and spirometry. Occupational
related respiratory problems and dermatological present at the study time or during a 3-
month recall period were noted. Statistical analysis was done in STATA software version
13 (Stata Corps, College Station).
Results: There was a higher prevalence of the common respiratory symptoms such a colds
(85.2%) and prolonged or repeated sneezing (81.5%) among sweepers compared to the
administrative and support staff (58.8% and 61.8% respectively). Also, pulmonary
function (PF) was reduced amongst sweepers and collectors compared to the
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administrative and support staff. Lower pulmonary function indices; FVC (2.6±0.75) and
FEV1 (2.07±0.43), which indicate poor respiratory health were lowest among sweepers.
The duration of employment did not significantly affect (PF) indices (FVC and FEV1).
The overall prevalence of dermatological conditions amongst MSWWs was 60%.
Conclusion: MSWWs (collectors, sweepers and transporters) have increased prevalence
of respiratory symptoms, reduced pulmonary function and higher prevalence of
dermatological conditions compared to the administrative and support staff.