A Study on Problems of Management of Bio Medical Wastes

The collection, storage and disposal of medical solid wastes are a growing environmental problem in Indian cities which needs immediate attention before it goes out of hand. While the government of India is making efforts to expand medical services by allowing private hospitals in the country, the management of medical wastes has received little attention despite their potential environmental hazards and public health risks. This paper discusses the results of a study on management of medical wastes in the Government Hospital; Erode of 583-bedded capacity has taken as a case study. The quantity of Waste arising from the hospital is 319.5 Kg/day. As no proper Segregation at source is practiced in this hospital, it has paved the way for increased medical waste stream due to mixing of general and medical waste. The study revealed that medical wastes are not properly managed in most hospitals and dispensaries. The medical facilities are characterized by inadequate and in appropriate refuse storage facilities, lack of refuse collection services, improper disposal methods and inadequate and inappropriate gear for refuse handlers. A number of remedial measures to improve the situation including the construction of commercial incinerator in the city are suggested.