Managing Safety in Zimbabwe's Growing Cities
In the heart of Zimbabwe's growing cities, a silent crisis unfolds daily amid the construction booms transforming the urban landscape. As new buildings rise and old structures fall, they leave behind a trail of construction and demolition (C&D) waste—a mixture of concrete, wood, metals, and potentially hazardous materials that represents both an environmental threat and a safety challenge for workers and communities alike 1 .
of total waste in suburban areas like Monomotapa and Shamrock is C&D waste 1
of C&D debris generated in the United States in 2018 alone 4
"CDW is a significant environmental concern globally due to its large volume and potential impact on human health and environment" 1
Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste refers to the debris generated during construction, renovation, and demolition activities 1 . These materials typically include:
C&D waste in Zimbabwe presents a complex array of safety and health hazards that can be categorized into four main types:
Toxic substances such as asbestos, lead-based paint, solvents, and treated wood 3
Bacteria, viruses, and pathogens from improperly managed waste sites 1
Musculoskeletal disorders from manual handling of heavy materials 1
| Material | Common Sources | Health and Safety Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Asbestos | Older building insulation, tiles | Respiratory diseases, cancer when fibers are inhaled |
| Lead | Lead-based paints, pipes | Neurological damage, especially in children |
| Chemicals & Solvents | Adhesives, paints, cleaning supplies | Toxicity, flammability, environmental contamination |
| Treated Wood | Construction lumber | Chemical exposure to arsenic or creosote |
| Electrical Waste | Wiring, switches, batteries | Heavy metal exposure (lead, cadmium, mercury) |
Zimbabwe has established several regulatory frameworks to address C&D waste management, including:
These policies require construction companies to submit waste management plans before starting projects and establish designated waste disposal sites 1 . However, implementation faces significant challenges.
Research in Zimbabwe has highlighted the Hierarchy of Controls as an effective framework for managing C&D waste hazards 1 . This systematic approach, developed by occupational safety experts, prioritizes control methods based on their effectiveness:
The most effective strategy involves removing the hazard entirely 1 . In C&D waste management, this might involve redesigning construction processes to generate less debris or selecting alternative materials with lower risks.
When elimination isn't possible, replacing hazardous materials with safer alternatives can reduce risks 1 . For example, using less toxic chemicals in construction materials minimizes hazards when those materials eventually become waste.
These measures involve physical modifications to reduce exposure to hazards 1 . Examples include using automated equipment to minimize manual handling or installing ventilation systems to control dust during demolition operations.
This approach focuses on changing work practices and policies 1 . Implementing comprehensive safety training programs, establishing clear protocols for waste segregation, and developing scheduling strategies to minimize worker exposure to hazards all fall under this category.
As a last line of defense, PPE such as gloves, respirators, and protective clothing provides a final barrier between workers and hazards 1 . While essential, PPE is considered the least effective control because it relies on human behavior and proper use.
| Control Type | Examples in C&D Context | Relative Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Elimination | Redesign to generate less waste | Most Effective |
| Substitution | Use non-toxic materials | |
| Engineering Controls | Automated handling equipment, ventilation systems | Moderately Effective |
| Administrative Controls | Safety training, work rotation | Less Effective |
| PPE | Respirators, gloves, safety glasses | Least Effective |
A comprehensive review study conducted in 2024 examined the current state of safety and health hazards associated with C&D waste management in Zimbabwe 1 . The research provides valuable insights into both the problems and potential solutions.
The study employed a systematic review approach, gathering literature from various databases including African Journals Online, PubMed, Science Direct, Springer, Sage Publications, Google Scholar, and Scopus 1 . Researchers used keywords such as "construction and demolition waste," "waste management," "safety hazards," "health hazards," and "risk assessment" to retrieve relevant data 1 .
The review identified that risk assessment and use of personal protective equipment were highlighted as key strategies to manage safety and health hazards associated with C&D waste in Zimbabwe 1 . Proper handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of construction and demolition waste were found to significantly reduce its impacts on people and the environment 1 .
Despite the challenges, Zimbabwe is exploring innovative approaches to C&D waste management:
This UN Habitat project, funded by the Swedish Government, aims to provide better living conditions for Harare citizens by improving access to sustainable waste management services 2 . Key interventions include:
Designed to maximize recovery of resources from waste, processing up to 80-90% of waste near its source 2
Promote productive use of energy for job creation 2
Training and demonstration centre dedicated to promoting sustainable construction practices 2
The concept of a circular economy—where waste is minimized, and materials are continuously reused and recycled—is gaining traction in Zimbabwe's construction sector 2 . This approach not only addresses safety hazards but also creates economic opportunities:
Landfill conservation, reduced pollution, lower carbon footprint
Job creation, cost savings, new revenue streams 6
Based on research findings and successful initiatives, several recommendations emerge for improving safety in Zimbabwe's C&D waste management:
While Zimbabwe has established regulatory frameworks, enhanced enforcement mechanisms are needed to ensure compliance 1 . This might include more frequent inspections, stricter penalties for violations, and better coordination between government agencies.
Comprehensive safety awareness programs for workers at all levels can significantly reduce accidents and exposures 1 . Training should cover proper handling techniques, hazard identification, and emergency response procedures.
The management of safety and health hazards associated with construction and demolition waste represents both a pressing challenge and significant opportunity for Zimbabwe.
As the country continues to develop its urban infrastructure, adopting scientifically-grounded, sustainable approaches to C&D waste can protect workers, communities, and the environment while supporting economic growth.
The insights from research in Zimbabwe highlight that effective solutions require a multifaceted approach combining regulatory enforcement, technological innovation, education, and economic incentives.
By applying frameworks like the Hierarchy of Controls and embracing circular economy principles, Zimbabwe can transform its C&D waste from a hazardous problem into a valuable resource.
As global construction continues to expand, the lessons from Zimbabwe's experience with C&D waste management offer valuable insights for other developing nations facing similar challenges. Through continued research, innovation, and collaboration, the goal of safe, sustainable waste management is within reach—building not just structures, but safer communities for future generations.