Study of hospital wastes and its managment in Riyadh city

ABSTRACT

To identify size and magnitude of the problem of hospital wastes, its characteristics, and methods of hospital wastes management. Data were collected from 14 major hospitals in Riyadh city using a questionnaire. The questionnaire included inquiries about types of hospital wastes, weight, and details of its management. Also, companies responsible for hospital wastes management were contacted about details of hospital wastes management. Data were collected and entered to the PC using Epi Info software version 6.4d, frequency tables and cross tabulations were produced. A total of 14 hospitals were contacted, 7 public and 7 private hospitals, contain 3007 beds. Total daily hospital medical wastes was 1347 Kg, and total non-medical wastes was 11175 Kg. All hospitals collect wastes on daily basis. All hospitals had contracts with hospital wastes management companies. Public hospitals have higher rates of hospital medical wastes compared to private hospitals. The average weight of hospital medical waste per bed was higher for public hospitals [0.55kg / bed] compared to private hospitals [0.35 Kg / bed]. Hospital wastes management is a priority for all countries. Proper training for hospital wastes management personnel is mandatory. Establishment of an effective occupational health program is needed in all hospitals to immunize health care workers, impose post exposure prophylaxis and carry out surveillance. Clear policy regarding hospital wastes management is mandatory in every hospital