Solid waste workers: Occupational exposures and health

Although solid waste generation is increasing worldwide, the occupational exposures and health risks of solid waste workers are not well understood. This review focuses on the peer-reviewed published medical, epidemiologic, and toxicologic literature, and available governmental reports. Studies from developed and less developed nations, as well as studies on other relevant work-forces (such as hazardous waste workers), were also reviewed. Solid waste workers are exposed to significant levels of physical, chemical and biological toxins. Injury, as well as acute and chronic musculoskeletal, dermal, and respiratory health effects, are well documented among these workers. Engineering controls, exposure monitoring, education, personal protection, and other interventions are under-utilized in protecting solid waste workers from exposure and health effects. Specific recommendations are suggested for reducing exposures and occupational health effects of solid waste workers. Additional research is needed to further characterize the exposures and health effects of these workers.