Emma Linhart
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Abas Shkembi
Research Mentor School/College/Department: University of Michigan / Public Health
Program:
Authors: Emma Linhart, Abas Shkembi
Session: Session 1: 9:00 am – 9:50 am
Poster: 40
Abstract
Electronic waste, or e-waste, is discarded products that contain electrical components, and its increasing volume creates a growing need for workers to recycle and dispose of the materials in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). There are many risks that come when working with e-waste, including occupational injuries. This study aimed to create a tool for informal e-waste recyclers to reduce injuries at work. An intervention study was conducted among 89 e-waste recyclers in Northeastern Thailand who primarily worked on dismantling e-waste materials. Using input from the workers and business owners using an analytical hierarchical process, an intervention tool was designed and given to approximately 50% of the participants to use in their work. Through surveys administered before and after the intervention, participants reported their occupational injuries. We will run a multivariate Poisson regression model to examine the association between our intervention and occupational injuries. The results of this study can provide us with a better understanding of how to make e-waste recycling safer for vulnerable LMIC workers and can be transferred to different e-waste settings to prevent injuries.
