Summary

In this study session, you have learned that:

1. Healthcare waste is any waste produced in a healthcare facilty and is also known as medical waste, hospital waste or infectious waste. It includes hazardous and non-hazardous waste.
2. Health hazards from pathogens are the major concern in waste from health facilities.
3. Waste minimisation is the first and most important step in healthcare waste management.
4. Healthcare waste must be segregated into different categories and colour-coded containers used for storage.
5. Safety boxes are important devices for safe collection of sharps. A sharps pit is also required for final disposal.
6. Personnel involved in handling and storage of healthcare waste should be trained in correct procedures and provided with the necessary PPE to protect their health.
7. Autoclaving, incineration, placenta/burial pit and HLD using chemicals are the most commonly used final disposal methods.