IDENTIFICATION OF ELECTRONIC WASTE AND POTENTIAL HEALTH PROBLEMS TO ELECTRONIC WASTE COLLECTORS IN PAMULANG DISTRICT, SOUTH TANGERANG CITY, INDONESIA

Abstract

Electronic waste (e-waste) contains various hazardous materials and affects human health, and e-waste is increasing worldwide and in Indonesia. Electronic waste collectors (e-waste collectors) are people or groups who receive used electronic goods from other people or institutions. E-waste collectors pose a health risk to e-waste. This study aimed to identify the types of e-waste collected and the potential health problems for e-waste collectors in the Pamulang District. The study was a descriptive study with a cross-sectional approach. The accessible population was e-waste collectors encountered during the study. The sample size in this study was ten respondents obtained by non-random method, by accident, followed by snowballing. The instruments used were validated and reliable questionnaires, observation sheets, and GPS that corresponded to the study objectives. Potential health problems due to e-waste were assessed via the respondents’ subjective health complaints using questionnaires. Data on the type of e-waste and potential health problems were presented descriptively by making a frequency distribution table. E-waste found (in units) were 286 lamps, 53 temperature exchange equipment such as air conditioners, 98 screens, monitors, and equipment containing screens having a surface greater than 100 cm2 such as television, 202 small informatic technology and telecommunications equipment such as smartphones, 194 small equipment such as rice cookers, and 79 large equipment such as washing machines. E-waste collectors receive 5 kg - 8 tons of e-waste weekly. Potential health problems experienced include low back pain and metal fume fever symptoms, such as lethargy, muscle aches, sweating, and headaches. It concluded that the e-waste found in e-waste collectors dominated by the lamp category and potential health problems often found in e-waste collectors are symptoms of metal fume fever. E-waste collectors who experience it can rest and treat symptoms that arise. Further research is needed to ascertain the link between health problems and e-waste.