Biomedical Waste Management Knowledge among Dental Students and Private Dental Practitioners of Alkharj, Saudi Arabia

ABSTRACT Improper handling of biomedical waste causes health hazards. Dental practitioners and students as health care professionals should know about biomedical waste management from its generation to disposal. This will prevent associated risk and cross-infection. To assess the awareness, attitude, and practice of dental students and dental practitioners at Alkharj, Saudi Arabia. Total of 100 dental students from a teaching institute and 100 private dental practitioners participated in the study. A closed-ended questionnaire was used containing 20 questions related to awareness, attitude, and practice of biomedical waste. Participation was voluntary. 98% of dental practitioners and 95% of dental students are aware that biomedical waste causes health hazards. 25% of dental students and 36% of dental practitioners are aware of guidelines laid by the government of Saudi Arabia for BMW. On average, 74% of dental students and 87% of dental practitioners correctly answered practice-related questions. The knowledge ḥof dental practitioners about biomedical waste management in the Alkharj region is good compared to dental students. Dental students must be given training related to handling and management of biomedical waste.