An assessment of the health and safety conditions of domestic waste collectors in Malta

Abstract

This long essay seeks to provide a glimpse of the present health and safety conditions of the local domestic waste collectors. These workers are potentially exposed to a multitude of hazards during their workday - slips, trips, falls, vehicle accidents, cuts and punctures caused by sharp objects, infections and musculoskeletal injuries. Such hazards can develop into serious risks to health and life. An international literature review and local occupational health and safety regulations provide a framework for safe work practices and adequate protection to reduce work related risks. Yet is the situation in the local refuse collection scene sufficiently safe? A casual observation may suggest otherwise. The author critically observed the work process of four collection crews as they collected refuse from our towns. This was complemented by casual semi-structured interviews with the collectors and contractors to gain further insight into the health and safety issues which affect them and their views on related factors. The qualitative data collected contributed to show a similarity in their health and safety practices and attitudes which may be an indication of the general picture of the local refuse collectors. In the author's opinion their present situation leaves significant room for improvement, when compared to the literature on best practice and legal requirements. This contrast is presented so as to give recommendations for improving the health and safety conditions of these workers.