A total of 27 districts in Tamil Nadu recently were relaxed the restrictions from Monday. However, the sanitation workers are expecting a heavier workload as compared to the lockdown period.
Sanitation Workers Express Concerns Over Carelessly Disposed Face Masks
As per the latest reports, since many districts in Tamil Nadu have their restrictions relaxed, the sanitation workers are concerned about “carelessly disposed of facemasks”. The sanitation workers have reportedly had to clear the face masks that were thrown away mindlessly, especially in the commercial districts.
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A worker from the Madurai Corporation spoke to the media and said that they personally don’t have any issues with the workload but the masks thrown on the streets are causing real fear in many of the workers. At the same time, they don’t exactly know how to clear those face masks.
The workers further said that they were sure this could lead to another major catastrophe as the thrown facemasks could become spreaders of the Covid 19 virus. They have already petitioned the corporation about it and are waiting for a constructive response.
People Carelessly Throw Face Masks Despite Various Awareness Programmes
The sanitation workers are also facing a similar situation in Chennai as well. The corporation ran awareness programmes regarding the disposal the face masks, people continue to the throw them carelessly on the streets. The same is reportedly posing a health hazard for the general public and the sanitation workers.
Raghunathan S., a sanitation worker in Chennai Corporation told IANS: “I am afraid of these face masks being littered everywhere. I am aware of the danger posed by them but people are still acting as if they are not aware.”
He further added that the Tamil Nadu Health Department and the corporation has conducted many awareness programmes. But they are hoping that the corporation will come up with a solution for the same.
To dispose a face mask after use, place the mask in a plastic bag or zip-lock bag. You can also store them in a breathable container such as a paper bag between uses. Secure the bag tightly. Place the plastic bag into a garbage can or biomedical waste disposal unit.
