A study on Medical Laboratory Waste Management in a Psychiatric Hospital of North East India

Hospitals generate large amount of waste. Pathology, microbiology, blood bank and other diagnostic laboratories generate sizable amount of biomedical waste (BMW). Various forums have discussed problems of BMW in the background of overall hospital waste management without paying much deserved attention towards waste generated in Laboratory services. Present study was carried out from Laboratory areas of Psychiatry hospital of North East India for a period of one year. During the baseline survey of laboratory waste in the hospital, quantity & types of waste generated, sharps management, awareness about BMW and waste minimization and recycling procedures & policies were studied with a view to determine weaknesses in the system. In our survey it is seen that, management, handling and treatment of Biomedical Waste are done as per Bio-Medical Waste Rules, 1998. The medical staffs at the high end of hierarchy seem to have proper theoretical knowledge and positive attitude but less practical knowledge. The whole plan works as a system aiming at comprehensive waste management. It should be supported through appropriate education, training and the commitment of the healthcare staff, management and healthcare managers within an effective policy and legislative framework.