Observation of Hospital Waste Management System In Savar Area, Bangladesh

Abstract

This research examines the management procedures of hospital waste in public and private healthcare institutions in Savar Area, Dhaka, Bangladesh. The study seeks to assess current waste management systems, pinpoint significant difficulties, and suggestpractical changes to improve public health and environmental safety. A mixed-methods strategy, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques, was employed to provide comprehensive insights. Field surveys, interviews with hospitalstaff, and direct on-site inspections were performed at 10 hospitals, comprising 1 public and 9 private institutions, with responses gathered from around 100 individuals engaged in waste management. The findings indicate substantial discrepancies between hospitals' compliance with the Medical Waste Management and Processing Rules (2008) and their actual execution. Identified common categories of hazardous wasteinclude infectious waste, pathological and anatomical waste, and hazardous pharmaceutical and chemical waste, with no hospitals producing radioactive waste. Private hospitals demonstrated greater adherence to waste management protocols than public hospitals; nonetheless, all institutions encounter difficulties, including inadequate staff training, limited infrastructure, ineffective waste segregation, and financial limitations. The survey of hospitals revealed that the most commonly produced wastes are blood and blood products, bandages, and dressings, while the least produced wastes are human organs and expired medicines. Moreover, the majority of hospitals depend on an external waste management company, PRISM Bangladesh, for the collection and treatment of hazardous waste utilizing techniques such as autoclaving, incineration, and landfilling. The study indicates that, notwithstanding the presence of a legislative framework, significant enhancements are required to guarantee successful hazardous waste management. It is recommended that according to Medical Waste Management and Processing Rules (2008) encompass the establishment of a 4-bin waste segregation system, improved staff training initiatives, intensified regulatory control, and augmented governmental investment in waste treatment technologies. The study emphasizes the necessity for coordinated actions by governmental bodies and healthcare organizations to enhance hazardous waste management and protect public health and the environment in Bangladesh.