Informal-sector occupational hazards: an observational workplace assessment of the traditional medicine trade in South Africa

Informal traditional medicine markets are trading and processing hubs for a range of plant, animal and mineral materials; however, little is known regarding the occupational risks associated with the processing and handling of these products. The aim of this study was to identify the workplace hazar...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International journal of occupational safety and ergonomics 2021-04, Vol.27 (2), p.562-569
Main Authors: Shezi, Busisiwe, Naidoo, Rajen N., Muttoo, Sheena, Mathee, Angela, Alfers, Laura, Dobson, Richard, Ndlovu, Patrick, Street, Renee A.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Animals
Ergonomics
Humans
Informal Sector
informal workers
Medicine, Traditional
occupational hazards
Occupational Health
potentials risks
South Africa
traditional medicine traders
Workplace
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Summary:Informal traditional medicine markets are trading and processing hubs for a range of plant, animal and mineral materials; however, little is known regarding the occupational risks associated with the processing and handling of these products. The aim of this study was to identify the workplace hazards of the traditional medicine trade. A walk-through observation of the workplace was conducted by two independent observers with formal training in workplace risk evaluation. Ergonomic, physical, chemical, biological and environmental hazards were identified from the handling of plant, animal and/or mineral products. The study gives an insight into a unique and diverse sector.
ISSN:1080-3548
2376-9130
2376-9130
DOI:10.1080/10803548.2019.1602329