Barbers’ knowledge and practices regarding biological hazards in their profession: A cross-sectional study in Bangladesh

This cross-sectional study assessed biological hazard-related knowledge and practices among 470 barbers across four districts in Bangladesh. The median knowledge score was 5 (IQR: 4-7), and the median practice score was 7 (IQR: 5-11). Approximately 45% of barbers had heard about the hepatitis B virus and 39% about the hepatitis C virus. Quantile regression revealed that higher education, monthly income (>10,000 BDT), work experience (>5 years), daily working hours (>10 h), and receipt of barbering training were significant positive predictors of knowledge scores across various quantiles. Moreover, educational attainment, higher monthly income (>20,000 BDT), receipt of barbering training, and higher knowledge scores were significantly associated with better practices. The study reveals suboptimal knowledge and practices regarding biological hazards among the participating barbers. To address these risks, policymakers should implement targeted interventions and training programs on infection control, proper sterilization methods, and disease transmission prevention among barbers in Bangladesh.