In the critical environment of healthcare, managing hazardous materials and waste is essential for the safety and well-being of both staff and patients. When safety procedures are clearly prioritized, they cultivate trust among healthcare workers and inspire confidence in patients. A dedicated focus through comprehensive education, compliance with regulations, and proactive strategies helps significantly reduce the risks associated with hazardous substances.

Introduction

Healthcare facilities generate a significant amount of waste, a portion of which is hazardous and poses various risks if not managed properly. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 15% of the waste generated by healthcare activities is considered hazardous, which may be infectious, toxic, carcinogenic, flammable, corrosive, reactive, explosive, or radioactive. Effective management of these materials is crucial to ensure the safety of healthcare workers, patients, and the environment.

Healthcare Statistics on Hazardous Materials

Injury and Illness Rates: 

The healthcare and social assistance industry reported a 40% increase in injury and illness cases in 2020, with 806,200 cases. Over half of these cases resulted in at least one day away from work.

Waste Generation: 

Every year, an estimated 16 billion injections are administered worldwide, but not all needles and syringes are properly disposed of. This highlights the importance of proper hazardous waste management.

Types of Hazardous Waste: 

Chemicals and pharmaceuticals account for about 3% of hazardous healthcare waste, while infectious and pathological wastes make up 15%.

Key Processes in Hazardous Materials Management

Inventory Management: 

Understanding what hazardous materials and waste are present in the hospital is the first step in effective management. This includes a thorough inventory that details the types, locations, and approximate quantities of hazardous materials. This inventory should be updated at least once a year to ensure it stays within the maximum allowed quantity for each location.

Safe Handling and Storage: 

Proper handling and storage of hazardous materials are crucial. Staff should be trained to manage these substances safely, minimizing risks to health and safety. Labels on all hazardous materials must be clear and consistent with information from current Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

Categorizing Hazardous Waste: 

By establishing and identifying categories for hazardous waste, hospitals can streamline their management processes. This aids in ensuring that waste is handled and stored safely and is vital for compliance with local laws and regulations. Hazardous waste generated, typically fall into categories such as:

Infectious waste

Sharps

Pathological and anatomical waste

Pharmaceuticals

Chemicals and heavy metals

Genotoxic and cytotoxic waste

Radioactive waste

Track and Dispose Responsibly: 

Tracking the quantity of hazardous waste generated and ensuring its proper disposal is essential. This is not just about compliance; it’s about fulfilling our responsibility towards the environment and community.

Preparedness for Spills and Exposures: 

Hospitals must have clear and effective procedures to manage hazardous materials spills. Spill kits equipped with appropriate PPE and spill control materials must be strategically placed throughout the facility. These guidelines not only outline how to respond to spills but also provide protocols for reporting exposures, ensuring that every team member knows the correct course of action.

Documentation and Compliance: 

Maintaining records of all permits, licenses, and other regulatory requirements ensures compliance with all relevant laws. This commitment not only protects the hospital but also builds trust within the community. Documentation is a must.

Immediate First Aid: 

When it comes to hazardous material exposure, immediate access to first aid is imperative. For some chemicals, particularly corrosive or caustic substances, having eyewash and shower stations nearby can be lifesaving. An eyewash station is designed to provide simultaneous flushing to both eyes for 15 continuous minutes at a flow rate of 1.5 liters per minute (0.4 gallons per minute), which is critical in minimizing injury.

Assessing Risk: 

To effectively manage chemical exposure risks, hospitals must conduct thorough risk assessments. These assessments help identify where eyewash stations are essential, taking into account the physical properties of hazardous chemicals, their use in daily operations, and how well staff are equipped with PPE. In certain settings, alternative solutions—such as personal eyewash bottles—may be adequate, especially where exposure to mild irritants is a concern.

Maintenance Matters: 

For healthcare facilities equipped with eyewash and shower stations, ongoing maintenance is crucial. These stations require a weekly flush to ensure they function properly, as well as annual preventive maintenance checks. This ensures that, when the need arises, the equipment is ready to provide immediate assistance.

Conclusion

The proactive management of hazardous materials and waste is essential in healthcare environments. By prioritizing safety procedures, conducting regular assessments, and maintaining safety equipment, hospitals can create a safer workplace—protecting not only staff but also the patients we serve. Safety is not just a priority; it’s the foundation of quality care in healthcare settings.

About the author:
Dr. Neesha Ajit Nair is the Consultant Quality & Patient Safety, AGM Medical Affairs & Quality at Aster DM Healthcare.

References : WHO - Health Care Waste Management; JCI Standards 8th edition