A study on the thoughts and viewpoints of people in different professions about solid waste comprehensive management in developing appropriate educational methods

Authors
Mohamad Javad Ghanadzadeh
Atena Bolhasani
Nader Akhavan Malayeri
Baback Eshrati
Mohsen Shamsi
Abstract
Background and Aims:
Nowadays, solid waste management is one of the major concerns among the human societies. The aim of this study
was to assess the viewpoint of people in different professions about waste management in developing educational
methods.
Methods:
This is an analytical study that was carried out on 275 workers and 667 staff in offices of Arak city in 2012. Data
was collected by questionnaire including knowledge, attitude, practice and appropriate source of education for waste
management. Finally, data was analyzed by statistical chi-square and T- test.
Results:
The mean of awareness among workers and offices was 4.5± 2.1 and 6.7± 1.9 respectively with a significant
difference (p=0.041). Moreover the mean in attitude was 18± 5.6 and 26.12± 7.1 respectively that was with a
significant difference (p=0.025). There was a significant relationship between level of awareness, job and level of
education (p<0.05). 39% of workers had said that television and radio were the most influential sources in educating
waste management.
Conclusion:
According to the low awareness of different professions and considerable waste volume, fundamental and technical
modifications in waste managements are necessary.

*Corresponding Author: Mohamad Javad Ghanadzadeh, Arak, Department of Preventive Medicine.
Email: dr.ghanadzadeh@arakmu.ac.ir
Keywords
Offices
Workers
Waste management
Education