Conhecer o modo e condições de vida do catador: uma mediação necessária no estabelecimento de alternativas de enfrentamento a situação de vulnerabilidade e risco pessoal e social

Abstract

The handling of solid waste by the collectors generates direct impacts on their lives and environmental quality. These workers, are mostly in a situation of vulnerability, personal and social risk caused by poverty. This paper aims to reflect the importance of diagnosing the conditions of life and work of collectors and recyclers and present the methodology used to perform it. The data collected comes from three sources: direct observation and interview (with collectors, associated or not) and waste characterization. The results show that the profile of collectors/recyclers associated and non associated is similar: the most prevalent age group is 41-50 years, over 60% do not have basic education; more than 70% work collecting up there five years and earn one to two minimum wages; almost all of them use PPE (most, however, unfit for work); about 50% are referenced in CRAS and almost 100% tied up to UBS. Some differences between the two groups can be noted: among the associated group most are women (62.2%); 36.9% pay INSS and point as major difficulties of working the incorrectly segregated materials (31.2%) and the lack of recognition and appreciation of the company (34.9%). Among the non-associated 59.1% are men; just over 20% pay INSS and highlight major difficulties of working the physical exertion (51%), lack of recognition and appreciation of the society (48.29%) and incorrectly segregated materials (45.7%). An important difference is that the non associated perceive themselves more as collectors (42.9%), while the associated as recyclers (87%). Most consider their health status between excellent, good and fair (96.3% of members and 94.6% of non-members). Direct observations show precarious working conditions, especially for non-members who do not have toilets and canteen. The characterization reveals several occupational risks, especially with sharp materials, risk of falling and disease by vectors. The diagnosis of these conditions can be considered as indispensable tool to propose initiatives to improve the working conditions and lives of these professionals.