An Explorative Study on Biomedical Waste Management in a Psychiatric Hospital of India

Background: In accordance with Bio-Medical Waste(management and handling)Rules,1998,it is the duty of every ‘‘occupier” i.e. a person who has the control over the institution and or its premises, to take all steps to ensure that waste generated is handled without any adverse effect to human health and environment. To improve hospital waste management, it is important to begin by surveying the facility of current hospital waste practices. A waste survey should therefore be undertaken about the information of the waste planning process. Methods: A waste survey was undertaken about the information of the waste planning process; as to improve hospital waste management, it is important to begin by surveying the facility of current hospital waste practices. This survey should provide information on types and quantity of wastes, which are arising at each point of production, and methods of storage, handling, treatment and disposal. Results: In our survey it is seen that, management, handling and treatment of Biomedical Waste are done as per Bio-Medical Waste Rules, 1998. Conclusion: After analyzing the study it was felt that the healthcare waste management should go beyond data compilation, enforcement of regulations and acquisition of better equipment. It should be supported through appropriate education, training and the commitment of the healthcare staff, management and healthcare managers within an effective policy and legislative framework.