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

2020, Bangladesh Journal of Environmental Research.

Healthcare waste (HCW) has become a critical concern 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 centers in the Noakhali district, Bangladesh, to identify the current HCW management status. Data were collected via questionnaires, on-site observations, and direct waste weighing. 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 centers, respectively. Hazardous waste covered 31% of the total waste generated. Most of the facilities had no adequate and appropriate HCW segregation and storage facilities. Only three hospitals and one diagnostic center are used to manage their HCWs according to the World Health Organization guidelines. About 80.73% of healthcare facilities used to dispose of HCW, along with general municipal waste, without any treatment. Only 9% of the respondents received specific training in the management of HCW. Existing HCW management systems in the Noakhali district require adequately formulated waste minimization strategies, guidelines, implementation of legislation, and budgets. A mix of all is required to protect the healthcare workers, community people, and the environment from the adverse impact.