Occupational hazards and its relation with health-seeking and practicing behaviors among sanitary workers in Southern, Ethiopia

• Main Authors: Girish Degavi, Shyama Debbarma, Shiferaw Gelchu Adola, Boko Loka Safayi, Udessa Gemeda, Takala Utura
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier 2021-01-01
• Series: International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences
• Subjects: Occupational hazards; Solid waste handlers; Bule Hora Town
• Online Access: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214139121000627

Background: Industrial and institutional activity, usage, and utilization of items or substances all contribute to waste creation. Solid waste is also thought to contain non-harmful trash from households, particularly while cooking, organizations, institutions, stores, other business segments, and manufacturing industries. In terms of international and environmental standard protocol, solid waste handling, sewage disposal, and correct disposal have been a major topic of discussion. Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional quantitative study design was incorporated to assess knowledge, attitudes, practice, and associated factors on the prevention of occupational risks and health hazards among sanitary workers. 321 solidwaste handlers found to be engaged in Bule Hora, Town presently.  Results: The response rate of samples in the present study was found to be around 91.2% of which the majority were females, those accounted to be about 80%. The median age of the study samples was nearly 30 years. It was found that nearly three fourth of the study samples stated good knowledge on the prevention of occupational health risks. Most of the study participants had a good attitude and less the 10% showed good practice on the prevention of occupational health hazards. Job dissatisfaction was found to be a statistically significant factor along with the use of PPE’s in implementing good practices and work patterns among sanitary workers even after been provided with basic personal protective equipment.   Conclusion: The research showed that preparations for implementing fundamental occupational health services, including mandating the use of personal protective equipment and regulating solid waste collectors, should be adopted.