Abstract
The objectives of this research were to evaluate the roles and problems of Subdistrict Administration Organization (SAO) in environmental health management. Study issues included the roles, capabilities and obstacles in solid waste management, village water supply management and DHF control. Data collection was done using a questionnaire self-completed by the secretary of SAOs of each of the 514 SAOs. 498 responded (96.9%). Site visitation and in-depth interview of executive board members and the secretaries of SAOs were carried out in 20 subdistricts. Data were analyzed using percentage, mean and standard deviation and content analysis. The results from the questionnaire showed a high level of complaints about solid waste (78.1%) than the problems of clean water and DHF control. (63.3% and 34.5%) The site visitations revealed that solid waste was often dumped on the side of the road. Slow elimination and lack of land for treatment were important problems. Some sites were near water sources. Water supply was often insufficient and there was poor public participation and DHF control. Generally SAOs did not have enough manpower, budget and technology for environmental health management. 73.3% did not have an environmental health committee. The actual income of most SAOs was below the criteria set by law. Although there were many problems as those mentioned above, some SAOs were quite successful in reducing the disposal load, promoting the recycling process and producing bio-fertilizer from garbage. It is recommended that personnel competent in environmental health management are needed for most SAOs. The government should produce a manual for these works and train the personnel properly.
