Abstract

MEDICAL WASTE MANAGEMENT

*Abhishek Sanjay Khandagale, Priti Lohakare and Dr. Gajanan Sanap

Abstract

The collection, segregation, and disposal of medical waste pose challenges for numerous countries. To mitigate risks of harm, illness, and cross-contamination, enhanced measures are essential. Consequently, waste management staff and healthcare workers must comply with mandatory safety protocols. This review discusses the categorization of various types and classifications of medical waste, along with their treatment methods. Due to its potentially hazardous and contaminated nature, medical waste requires careful handling and processing at multiple stages and procedures. Incineration is commonly employed as the primary method for treating medical and hospital waste in various nations. However, it is recognized as a highly polluting process that emits a range of harmful chemicals impacting both the environment and human health. The management and disposal of medical waste in Egypt, China, Germany, and the United States were analyzed as case studies, with a focus on the regulations each of these countries has enacted to oversee medical waste.

Keywords: medical waste; human health; legislations; classification of medical waste; incineration.