ICMGP 2022 – On-Demand / Poster Presentation

Abstract Information :

Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) takes place under extreme conditions with a lack of occupational health and safety. As the demand for metals is increasing due to climate change mitigation efforts, the negative environmental and occupational consequences of mining practices are disproportionately felt in low- and middle income countries. The statement entails updated information on the neglected health hazards of ASM that include multiple toxic hazards, most notably mercury, lead, cyanide, arsenic, cadmium, and cobalt, as well as physical hazards, most notably airborne dust and noise, and the high risk of infectious diseases. These hazards affect miners and mining communities similarly as working and living spaces are rarely separated. The impact on children and women is often severe, including exposure to hazards during the child-bearing age and pregnancies, and the risk of child labor. We suggest strategies for the mitigation of these hazards and classify those according to primordial, primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention. Further, we identify knowledge gaps and issue recommendations for international, national and local governments, metal purchasers, and employers are given. With this statement, the Collegium Ramazzini calls for the extension of efforts to minimize all hazards that confront ASM miners and their families.