Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding Biomedical Waste Management among Dentists
Abstract
Background: With increase in number of dental clinics every year, biomedical waste (BMW) production increases accordingly.
Management of these wastes is a major part of clinical practice.
Aim and Objective: The objective of this study is to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice of BMW management among
dental students and practitioners.
Materials and Methods: This study involved 105 participants from undergraduates to private practitioners. The self-structured
questionnaire survey comprised 30 questions and it was conducted online. The data collected were transferred to version 20
SPSS software for statistical analysis.
Results: This study shows that about 60–80% of participants were aware of different categories of waste segregation, steps
in waste disposal and they also practice it. Around 70% of them practice the correct method for mercury disposal and 84% in
disposal of sharp needles. The major concern is about radiological waste disposal. Only 34% knew about desilvering of fixer
solution and 24% about recycling lead. More than 80% of the participants propose for proper training of the staffs handling
BMWs.
Conclusion: In this study, the postgraduates and interns had more awareness compared to the undergraduate students. There
is a lot of inadequacy in knowledge and practice which can be rectified from proper education and training at their early days
of clinical practice.
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