Omenihu George ODUALIChristianah Olajumoke SAM-KAYODE2024-08-292024-08-2920233027-0308https://repository.lcu.edu.ng/handle/123456789/751Urban waste picking is assuming more visibility in the Nigerian informal economy with its waste to wealth potential. Agrowing body of literature identifies this activity as a viable source of income which leaves pickers vulnerable to health hazards inspite of little formal recognition by the state. Although persistent forays into this as a livelihood activity continues, more research is needed to properly understand the social dimensions of this issue. The study examined waste pickers risk perceptions, safety practices and public attitudes at work at Awotan landfill in Ibadan. Primary data was collected through questionnaires administered to 81 active pickers on site. Data was analyzed using inferential statistics. Results indicate that most pickers had at least a primary school level of education. There were twice as more males than females. More than 70% indicated the most prevalent health problem encountered at work were serious punctures and injuries from sharp objects followed by diarrhoeal and typhoid infections. 88% felt that their work type impacted on their health in hazardous ways such as snake bites and stings, falls and slips and held strong perceptions about the work-health implications for illnesses. Hospital waste was the most feared due to its association with probable blood infections from used needles, blood/body waste. Public attitudes to pickers while working was often negative. There is a very high risk of exposure to pathogens at work and study results may inform health policy on direct points of intervention for workers amidst continued interaction with wasteenAwotan landfillIbadanWaste pickerhealth hazardPerceptionsArticle