Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Dental Waste Management among Dentists in Benghazi, Libya

Abstract

Dental clinics generate potentially hazardous wastes (e.g., sharps, blood-contaminated materials, chemicals, and amalgam residues) that pose infection and environmental risks, making it important to assess dentists’ knowledge, attitudes, and everyday practices toward safe dental waste management in Benghazi, Libya. Aim: To evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to dental waste management among dentists in Benghazi, Libya. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was administered to 118 registered dental practitioners using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Associations between demographic variables (age, academic qualifications, employment type, and managerial role) and KAP scores were examined (p < 0.05). Higher knowledge was significantly associated with more favorable attitudes and better practices. Older age, lower academic qualifications, employment outside academia, and absence of managerial roles were linked with lower KAP scores (p < 0.05). Despite generally adequate knowledge and positive attitudes, gaps in routine waste-management practices persisted. Dentists in Benghazi show satisfactory knowledge and attitudes but suboptimal practical implementation. Targeted training and stronger policy enforcement are recommended to improve compliance and clinical safety.