Chemical Waste Disposal Practices, Laboratory Safety and Environmental Protection in Secondary School Laboratories: Evidence from Nyanza District, Rwanda

Abstract

Improper management of laboratory chemicals in schools can affect human health and the surrounding environment. This study examined the relationship between chemical waste disposal practices, laboratory safety and environmental protection in twelve secondary schools in Nyanza District, Rwanda. A descriptive, correlational mixed-methods design was applied to a census of 74 stakeholders, including chemistry teachers, laboratory technicians, Deputies in charge of Studies, sector education officers, District Education Office officials and a Rwanda Basic Education Board representative. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions and document review. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Waste segregation containers (37.8%) and temporary storage areas (28.4%) were the most common storage practices; however, disposal into drains (27.0%) and open dumping or burning (12.2%) persisted, alongside neutralisation before disposal (31.1%). In total, 56.7% of respondents reported chemical exposure incidents occurring frequently or occasionally, and 70.2% reported some level of environmental contamination. Chemical waste disposal practices were strongly correlated with laboratory safety and environmental protection (r = .893, p < .01). In contrast, the six-predictor regression model was not statistically significant and explained only 6.8% of the variance in safety outcomes (F (6, 67) = 0.815, p = .562; R² = .068). The findings indicate that safer disposal practices, stronger infrastructure, consistent enforcement, training and monitoring are important for improving laboratory safety and environmental protection.