Abstract :
The subject of bio-medical waste (BMW) management has assumed great significance. Inadequate management of BMW has become a serious health hazard. Every day, relatively large amount of potentially infectious and hazardous wastes are generated in health care hospitals. The waste is disposed-off in an unscientific manner. The objective of the present study was to assess the variation in solid BMW per bed per day in four Government hospitals of Patiala city in the state of Punjab, India. The study was carried out for one year from January, 2016 to December, 2016. The waste generation rate ranges between 0.5 to 2.0 kg per bed per day. The results of the study demonstrate that there is an urgent need to increase awareness about rules, regulations and procedures regarding this vital issue. The BMW was treated in four categories – yellow, blue, white and red - on the basis of their segregation, collection, treatment, processing and disposal options. Our suggestions intend to create awareness amongst health care personnel to improve their BMW management practices.
Keyword :
Bio-medical waste, Disposal, Hazardous, Health, Hospital, Management, Patiala city, Segregation, Treatment.