Health risks associated with sodium hypochlorite solution use in human settlements: a case study of the Khartoum neighborhood, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo — regulatory and legal perspectives

Abstract

Sodium hypochlorite (bleach) is widely used in human settlements for cleaning and disinfection due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. However, inappropriate use poses significant health risks and raises regulatory and legal compliance issues. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding sodium hypochlorite use among residents of the Khartoum neighborhood, Ngiri-Ngiri commune, Kinshasa, DRC, and analyzed the applicable regulatory and legal framework. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted from February to June 2025 among 230 respondents using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests (Chi-square, Fisher's exact test, Cramér's V). A documentary analysis of the regulatory and legal framework was also performed. Results showed that 57% of respondents were male, and 43% had secondary education. The mean knowledge score for individual preventive measures was 44%, while collective preventive measures scored 39.5%. Waste management practices included burial (34%), street dumping (23%), incineration (19%), bin disposal (15%), and watercourse dumping (9%). The main health complaints reported were fatigue after inhalation (45%), abdominal pain (14%), headaches (12%), vomiting (9%), dizziness (6%), eye irritation (5%), cough (4%), colds (3%), and skin irritation (2%). Only 10% of respondents used appropriate personal protective equipment. Bivariate analysis revealed significant associations between education level and knowledge of preventive measures (p < 0.001), between knowledge and waste management practices (p = 0.003), and between PPE use and reported health problems (p = 0.012). Regulatory analysis revealed that 82.4% of respondents were unaware of the existence of legal texts on hygiene and sanitation, and 91.5% had never received awareness training on CBRN risks. We conclude that sodium hypochlorite use in the Khartoum neighborhood does not comply with technical or scientific standards, nor with the regulatory and legal framework in force. Community sensitization, capacity building, and law enforcement are urgently needed to reduce health and environmental risks.

Keywords: Kinshasa, sodium hypochlorite, bleach, health risks, chemical safety, waste management, regulatory framework, statistical analysis.

Received Date: August 17, 2026

Accepted Date: September 09, 2026

Published Date: October 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/995