Assessment of Knowledge and Preventive Practices about Occupational Health Hazard among Safai Karmchari of Municipality in Delhi

Abstract

Background: Safai karmchari plays an important role in maintaining the health and hygiene in the cities. This job exposes safai karmchari to a variety of risk factors such as dust, volatile organic matter and mechanical stress, which makes them susceptible to certain occupational diseases. The aim of this study was to find out the awareness about occupational health hazard and safety measures practiced by safai karmchari. Materials and Methods: This descriptive study had been carried out during the month of December 2017 to mid of February 2018 in the New Delhi Municipal Council area. Primary data was collected through structured observation checklist and interview with 164 safai karmchari. The data was analyzed using Microsoft excel 2007.Results: Results shows majority of respondent had knowledge about probability of skin allergy/injury/infection while collecting garbage by hand. Most of them had knowledge about probability of traffic accident while working on street. Most of respondents had knowledge about probability of fall while sweeping slippery surface and probability of respiratory problems/eye allergy, also probability of musculoskeletal problems due to their work. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) apron with reflector, shoes, cap, mask were used by most of the safai karmchari, but few of them uses gloves while working.Conclusion: It was concluded that the knowledge about occupational hazards as well as its preventive measures was more among trained safai karmchari than in untrained safai karmchari. However, a smaller number of respondents was using PPE while working. There is a need to develop SOP for different activities and preventive measure for safai karmchari. A training program should be introduced.

Solid waste workers in India and the COVID-19 pandemic: A Review of Intersecting challenges

“…33 There were studies promoting health in this group which were found to be effective in improving knowledge on anemia prevention and reproductive health, 46 and knowledge on the occupational hazard and hygiene. 52 Another recent study in Puducherry reported that 44.8%, 19%, and 10% were using footwear, gloves, and facemask respectively and none were using goggles or suits. 44 It could be observed from these studies that the use of gloves is comparatively less than other forms of PPE being used.…”