Economic downturn has forced many of Japan's poorest people to work at the damaged Fukushima nuclear plant, risking exposure to dangerous levels of radiation.

The growing number of so-called nuclear gypsies, who come from across the country, are working to repair the reactor crippled by the March 11 tsunami.

It is a job with severe health risks that most are not willing to brave.

Labour rights groups have complained to authorities about the lack of protection for the workers - who are not guaranteed training or health insurance.

Step Vaessen reports from Osaka.