Existing Scenario of Healthcare Waste Management in Noakhali, Bangladesh (original) (raw)

Healthcare waste (HCW) has become one of the critical concerns in developing countries like Bangladesh. Since establishing a proper HCW management strategy requires practical information on current conditions, this study surveyed 72 hospitals and 37 diagnostic centres in Noakhali district, Bangladesh to identify the current HCW management status. Data were collected via questionnaire surveys, on-site observations and direct weighing of waste. The study approach involved the estimation of the quantity of HCW generated, evaluation of processes i.e. segregation, storage, packaging treatment, final disposal and determination of the knowledge of healthcare workers regarding HCW management. The rate of HCW generation was 1730.53 and 76.5 kg per day for hospitals and diagnostic centres, respectively. Hazardous waste covered 31% of the total waste generated. There was no adequate and appropriate HCW segregation, storage facilities in the majority of the facilities. Only three hospitals and one diagnostic centre used to manage their HCW according to the guideline provided by the World Health Organization. About 80.73% of healthcare facilities used to dispose of HCW, along with the general municipal waste without any treatment. Only 9% of the respondents received specific training in the management of HCW. Existing HCW management systems in Noakhali district require adequately formulated waste minimisation strategies, guidelines, implementation of legislation, and budgets. A mix of all required to protect the healthcare workers, community people and the environment from the adverse impact.

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