Evaluation of Biomedical Waste Management Practices in Multispeciality Tertiary Hospital

Abstract

Background: Biomedical waste collection and proper disposal has become significant concern for medical and general community. The scientific hospital waste management is a vital importance as its improper management poses risk to healthcare workers, waste handlers, patients, community in general and largely the environment.

Aims and Objectives: (i.)To assess current practices of biomedical waste management including generation, collection, transportation, storage, treatment and disposal technologies in tertiary health care center. (ii.)To assess health and safety practices for health care personal involved in biomedical waste management.

Material and Method: Waste management practices in tertiary care center was study during in May 2016 to June 2016 the information/data regarding biomedical waste management practices and safety was collected by way of semi-structured interview, proforma being the one used for waste AUDITING QUESTIONNAIRE. The information collected was verified by personal observations of waste management practices in each ward of hospital.

The information collected was verified by personal observation of waste management practices in each wards of hospital.

Results: MMCH (Muzaffarnagar medical college and hospital) generates 1.25 kg wastes per bed per day and maximum waste is generated in wards. The hospital has got separate colour coded bins in each ward for collection of waste but segregation practices need to be more refined.

The safety measure taken by health care workers was not satisfactory, it was not due to unavailability of personal protective measures but because un-awareness of health hazards which may occur due to improper waste management practices.

Thus it concluded that there should be strict implementation of waste management policy set up in the hospital, training and motivation must be given paramount impotence to meet the current needs and standards of biomedical waste-management.