EVALUATION OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT WORKERS’ KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, AND PRACTICES: A CROSS- SECTIONAL STUDY OF THE SINDH SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT BOARD, HYDERABAD

Abstract

Solid waste management presents significant occupational health hazards globally, particularly in developing nations like Pakistan. This study investigates the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) of solid waste workers employed by the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SSWMB) in Hyderabad. Employing a cross-sectional quantitative design, structured questionnaires were administered to 384 solid waste collectors and data were analyzed using SPSS, One-way ANOVA, t-test, and Post hoc test for multiple comparisons among groups. The study aimed to evaluate workers' awareness of hazardous exposures and safety measures. Findings indicate gaps in knowledge, positive attitude and practices such as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) usage were found to be inadequate. Recommendations include targeted training initiatives and improved provision of PPE to mitigate occupational risks and promote the safety and well-being of workers engaged in solid waste management practices.