1.1 Introduction
The health risks associated with scavenging are a growing concern globally, particularly in developing countries. Scavengers, often marginalized and working in hazardous environments, face a multitude of health risks ranging from physical injuries to exposure to toxic substances and infectious diseases. These health risks are exacerbated by poor access to healthcare and lack of awareness about protective behaviors that can mitigate these risks. The occupational hazards for scavengers are diverse and significant. Physical injuries from sharp objects, heavy lifting, and machinery are common. Additionally, exposure to harmful chemicals and biological agents present in waste can lead to chronic health issues such as respiratory problems, skin diseases, and infections (Wilson et al., 2006). The lack of proper protective equipment and training further compounds these risks, making scavengers one of the most vulnerable groups in the informal sector.
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
In the early 20th century, the role of scavengers was recognized mainly in terms of their contribution to waste management and recycling, particularly in urban areas of developing countries. However, their working conditions and associated health risks were largely overlooked. Scavengers operated in informal, often unregulated environments, lacking access to basic health services and protective measures (Medina, 2000). The primary concern during this period was poverty alleviation, with little emphasis on occupational health and safety.
Scavenging, also known as waste picking, is a prevalent occupation in many developing countries, providing a source of livelihood for millions of individuals. These workers, often from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, collect, sort, and sell recyclable materials from waste. While this activity plays a crucial role in waste management and recycling, it exposes scavengers to numerous health risks due to the hazardous nature of the materials they handle and the environments in which they work.
The informal nature of scavenging means that these workers operate without formal recognition, regulatory oversight, or access to basic occupational health and safety measures. They are frequently exposed to sharp objects, toxic chemicals, and biological hazards that can lead to injuries, respiratory problems, skin infections, and other health issues (Medina, 2000). Furthermore, the lack of access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and personal protective equipment (PPE) exacerbates their vulnerability to health risks (Binion & Gutberlet, 2012).
In recent years, the focus has shifted towards a more holistic approach, integrating health risk awareness with broader social and economic initiatives. Programs designed to enhance the health and safety of scavengers now often include components such as health education, and the promotion of safer working practices (Gutberlet & Baeder, 2008). There is also an increasing recognition of the need for policy interventions that formalize the role of scavengers within waste management systems, providing them with legal protections and access to social security (Dias, 2016).
Research indicates that scavengers are often unaware of the full extent of the health risks they face and the protective behaviors that can mitigate these risks. Factors such as low literacy levels, inadequate health education, and cultural beliefs influence their awareness and practices regarding health risk protection (Dias, 2016). Additionally, economic constraints and the necessity to maximize earnings often lead scavengers to prioritize income over safety, resulting in a reluctance to invest in protective gear or practices that could potentially slow down their work (Wilson et al., 2006).
Several studies have highlighted the need for targeted interventions to improve the health and safety of scavengers. These interventions include providing access to PPE, offering health education programs, and integrating scavengers into formal waste management systems to ensure better working conditions and social protection (Gutberlet, 2008). However, there remains a significant gap in the understanding of how scavengers perceive health risks and the factors that influence their adoption of protective behaviors. Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the awareness of health risk protection behavior of scavenger.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that the many scavengers lack adequate knowledge about the various health risks associated with their occupation. They are often unaware of the potential dangers posed by hazardous materials, infectious diseases, and physical injuries encountered during scavenging (Medina, 2000). This insufficient awareness contributes to a higher incidence of health problems among scavengers.
Additionally, the economic pressures faced by scavengers drive them to prioritize income generation over health and safety. The need to maximize daily earnings can lead to prolonged exposure to hazardous conditions without taking necessary precautions (Wilson et al., 2006). Improving the economic conditions and providing incentives for safer practices are critical to addressing this issue.
Furthermore, even when scavengers are aware of the health risks, their access to personal protective equipment (PPE) is often limited by economic constraints and lack of availability. Many scavengers cannot afford or access basic protective gear such as gloves, masks, and boots, which are essential for minimizing health risks (Binion & Gutberlet, 2012). Hence, it is against this backdrop that this study aims to investigate the Awareness of Health Risk Protection Behavior of Scavenger in Owerri Metropolis.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to investigate the Awareness of Health Risk Protection Behavior of Scavenger in Owerri Metropolis. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To determine the extent to which scavengers are informed about the potential dangers posed by hazardous materials, infectious diseases, and physical injuries;
- To explore how economic pressures, cultural beliefs, and social norms impact the use of PPE and other health protection measures;
- To evaluate the level of awareness among scavengers about the health risks associated with their occupation;
- To evaluate the effectiveness of existing health education and training programs for scavengers; and
- To recommend improvements or new approaches to health education that could enhance awareness and adoption of protective behaviors.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- Do cultural beliefs and social norms influence the adoption of health protection measures among scavengers?
- Can improvements or new approaches to health education better enhance awareness and the adoption of protective measures?
- What is the current level of awareness among scavengers regarding the health risks associated with their occupation?
- How effective are current health education and training programs in raising awareness and promoting the adoption of protective behaviors among scavengers?
- How knowledgeable are scavengers about the specific dangers posed by hazardous materials, infectious diseases, and physical injuries in their work environment?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: There is no significant relationship between the level of awareness among scavengers about health risks and their knowledge of protective behaviors.
- H1: There is significant relationship between the level of awareness among scavengers about health risks and their knowledge of protective behaviors.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Scavengers who have higher awareness levels regarding health risks associated with their occupation will not demonstrate greater knowledge and understanding of protective behaviors.
- H1: Scavengers who have higher awareness levels regarding health risks associated with their occupation will demonstrate greater knowledge and understanding of protective behaviors.
1.7 Significance of Study
Awareness of health risk protection behavior among scavengers is critically important for several reasons. Firstly, it significantly reduces their exposure to numerous health hazards such as infectious diseases, hazardous materials, and physical injuries. This awareness leads to better personal hygiene and the use of protective equipment, thereby preventing infections and promoting overall health.
Furthermore, this awareness extends beyond individual benefits. Improved health practices among scavengers contribute to public health by minimizing the spread of diseases within communities. It also supports environmental protection through proper waste handling and disposal, reducing contamination and pollution. This contributes to a healthier ecosystem and more efficient waste management processes.
Economically, the benefits are substantial. By preventing injuries and illnesses, healthcare costs are reduced, and scavengers can maintain consistent productivity, enhancing their economic stability and contributing more effectively to waste management. This, in turn, can boost local economies by reducing the financial burden on healthcare systems and increasing the efficiency of recycling efforts.
Finally, the findings from the research study will guide policymakers and organizations in developing effective policies and interventions aimed at integrating scavengers into formal waste management systems, providing legal protections, and improving access to healthcare services.
1.8 Scope of Study
This scope of this research is focused on the Awareness of Health Risk Protection Behavior of Scavenger in Owerri Metropolis, Imo State.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Lack of Initial Cooperation from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Scavenger:
A person who collects, sorts, and sells recyclable materials from waste, typically operating in informal or unregulated settings (Wilson et al., 2006).
Health Risk:
It is the potential threat to health posed by hazardous conditions or substances encountered during scavenging, including physical injuries, exposure to toxic chemicals, and infectious diseases (Binion & Gutberlet, 2012).
Protection Behavior:
Actions taken by scavengers to mitigate health risks, such as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), adherence to hygiene practices, and seeking medical attention when necessary (Gutberlet & Baeder, 2008).
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