Medical Waste Management

The world is generating more and more waste and hospitals and health centres are no exception. Medical waste can be infectious, contain toxic chemicals and pose contamination risks to both people and the environment. If patients are to receive health care and recover in safe surroundings, waste must be disposed of safely. Choosing the correct course of action for the different types of waste and setting priorities are not always straightforward, particularly when there is a limited budget. This manual provides guidance on what is essential and what actions are required to ensure good management of waste.