Health Risks Associated with Waste Management Activities at the Gbegamey Waste Transfer Center, Cotonou, Southern Benin

Abstract

Introduction: Waste management is a major environmental and health challenge on a global scale. The objective of this study is to assess the health risks associated with household waste management activities on the health of workers at the Gbegamey transfer center. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among workers at the transfer center over a period from June 12 to 27, 2025. A non-probabilistic and exhaustive sampling method was used. Data were collected using a structured interview guide and an observation grid. Excel software was used to create tables and graphs. Results: Males were predominant (63.16%). The majority of participants were operators (79%) of the Waste Transfer Center. The main tasks performed by workers at the transfer center are picking up, transferring, collecting and covering containers, spreading and weighing waste, and maintaining the center. These activities expose workers to heat, noise, dust, odors, irritating gases, stress, and accident risks, sometimes at very high levels of criticality. Conclusion: Waste management, although essential to urban sanitation, exposes workers at the Gbegamey transfer center to numerous health risks, requiring appropriate preventive measures.