Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Regarding E-Waste in Resettlement Areas of East Delhi

Abstract

E-waste is collected and processed for disposal in urban slums of the metropolis of India by untrained workers without using personal protective equipment, which are detrimental not only to their health but also to the environment. This study was designed to find the knowledge, attitude, and practices of e-waste handling and management among the workers involved in e-waste handling and management in East district of Delhi. (Seelampur and Shastripark). A community based cross-sectional study was conducted among workers involved in e-waste handling and management in Seelampur and Shastripark. 250 e-waste handlers were selected by simple random sampling method from both the areas.  Information was collected by using a pre-tested   questionnaire from the workers after getting written informed consent. Information was collected on the knowledge of safe handling and management of e-waste and health hazards. Data was expressed in percentage. None of them were aware about various heavy metal released from various e-waste items. Apart from general hand washing; none of them were found using any face mask, gloves or any protective measure during e-waste handling. Many workers were involved in breaking Cathode Ray Tubes (CRTs). It is concluded that waste handlers had poor knowledge and practices regarding e-waste disposal necessitate the need for creating awareness on this aspect.