Waste management status in selected hospitals of Boukan, Saghez, Mahabad and Miyando-ab

ABSTRACT

Hospitals are among important sources of waste materials in cities while some of these wastes are of active or potential danger. Lack of a comprehensive program for hospital wastes and appropriate execuation of it [in its all aspects like; separation, selection, collection, carrying out and repelling] would be harmful for health stuff, patients and society. Management of hospital waste in hospitals of Boukan, Mahabad, Miand-o ab and Saghez is discussed in this article. This is a descriptive and cross sectional research study, using check lists and direct observation [questionnaire, as well], performed in 1384. The general hospitals of Boukan, Mahabad, Miand-o ab and Saghez were studied. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics. Despite of original waste separation, we found separation is not complete and occasionally the waste was found as a mixture. Transportations route was by trolley and wheel-barrow in 75% and 25%, respectively. Half of the hospitals were equipped with waste burning systems, but their performances were not acceptable. A quarter of infectious wastes were burnt separately while 25% was transported to other hospitals for burning. None of hospitals have colding system for wastes. In 50% of hospitals wastes were buried with ordinary wastes [by municipality] and in other half they were dealt with separately. Repelling hosptials' wastes are of quite importance, regarding its; management, direct and contionus control, and supervision. Policy makers, Managers and related staffs should all be aware of its importance and pay proper attention to the related programs