Exposure to WASH-borne hazards: A scoping study on peri-urban Ger areas in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

摘要: Abstract The present scoping study seeks to address the sources of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) exposure residents peri-urban Ger areas Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Field observations semi-structured key informant interviews were carried out during 2012 2013 assess existing WASH situation in In addition, a knowledge, attitude, practice (KAP) survey was conducted by Action Contre la Faim (ACF) Mongolia 210 households identify WASH-borne hazards statistically representative way. Moreover, quality drinking water analyzed both at household ( n  = 210) point (kiosk)  = 40) levels risk chemical pathogenic contaminants. Both field revealed that sanitary environment is characterized lack drainage system, unimproved sanitation technology (e.g. unhygienic pit latrines soak pits), unsafe supply, insufficient collection, transportation, storage mechanisms. Poor infrastructure associated with low standards living. transmission disease diarrhea, dysentery, hepatitis A) gravest consequence source hazards. results from analysis demonstrate are more exposed biological contamination stored Escherichia coli summer (May August) than winter (November February). During winter, 36% containers contaminated E. coli an average level 12.5 per 100 ml, while, summer, 56% 50 100 ml. KAP surveys further reveal common discharge greywater (with higher oxygen demand) into latrines, soak-pits, yards, streets likely causes environmental pollution health Multifaceted addressed such various interventions could be planned for area beyond. To tackle above challenges problems, range appropriate programs recommended reduce other parts world – urban settings. recommendations include: development implementation safety plan (WSP), effective monitoring system transportation kiosk levels, user training correct use containers, coordination among stakeholders (including planners), disposal functioning solid waste management system. Prior taking these actions, detailed on ‘pollution load urban’ should vulnerability central population.