Management of Hospital Waste: A Case Study in Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Background: There has been a major focus on hospital waste management and challenges of infectious waste removal in different researches. The aim of this study was to analyze medical wastes and examine the current situation of hospital waste management in Tehran, Iran. Methods: Five hospitals were selected, and a questionnaire was developed, based on the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for the assessment of hospital waste management. Moreover, hospital waste managers, hospital authorities, and other involved personnel were interviewed to gather further information. Results: The average rate of waste production was 4.72 Kg/bed/day (infectious waste, 2.3 Kg/bed/day). General and medical wastes were routinely segregated, and disinfection was accomplished in nearly 43% of hospital waste containers. The sanitary status of storage systems was strong in 20%, moderate in 60%, and poor in 20% of hospitals. Conclusions: Observations indicated the unsuitable conditions of waste storage systems. Implementation of management activities can improve health and environmental aspects of hospital waste management.