The Scrap Metal Processing Industry in Benin Exposed to Low Doses of Ionising Radiation

The scrap metal waste exploitation sector has many advantages but is not without risks for workers exposed to low doses of radiation. The aim of this study was to collect information on the frequency and distribution of illnesses occurring among the staff of the company ''Atlantic Control''. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study with retrospective and prospective collection of data on the health status of workers. Data were analyzed using Epi Info and SPSS software. In total, 75 agents working for 10 years in radioactive scrap metal waste and 45 agents working for 5 years were included in this study. Of the 75 agents working in radioactive scrap metal over 10 years, we noted that 2/3 of the agents suffered from fatigue, tachycardia and permanent and constant shortness of breath; 81.33% eye irritation; 14.67% myelemia; 29.33% subfertility;41.33% splenomegaly and 20% thyroid mass. Also, the health check examinations of 45 agents working in radioactive scrap metal over 5 years indicate33.33% cases of red spots on the body and fatigue; 35.55% poly leukocytosis; 31.11% discreet splenomegaly; 13.33% thyroid micronodule and 24.44% severe anemia. None of the workersdid not present these pathologies either when hired or after three yearss of exercise. These cases could be attributable to exposure to low doses of radiation.