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7.D.1. Mactan Stone Quarrying:
Approximately six children under 18 years old were observed to be performing various tasks at the time of the visit. According to the father of most of the children, such work is done the whole day. None of the children study and most did not finish their elementary schooling. The children have been working in the quary since they were about 8 or 9 years old.
| Process: |
Blasting of rocks, pick-axing of stones, carrying and loading of stones in trucks |
| Hazards Observed: |
Dusty operations, exposure to heat, carring of heavy loads (weighing more than 20 kgs in ceratin cases), long hours of work, safety concerns due to blasting |
| Other Observations: |
Personal protective equipment are not used, the children were generally shy and withdrawn. |
| Probable Outcomes: |
(1) Respiratory diseases including those that will manifest after exposures, e.g. silicosis; (2) Accidents : cuts, laceration, burns, death; (3) Stunting of physical and psychological growth; (4) Muscular aches and fatigue; (5) Deprivation of formal education and play time; (6) Skin diseases |
| Conclusion: |
The work done is considered heavy for children and the working conditions/tools used are all unsafe. Therefore, the work activity is extremely hazardous for children. |
| Recommendation: |
Children must not be allowed to be engaged in quarrying activities. |
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