A study on problems of management of medical solid wastes in Dar es Salaam and their remedial measures

摘要

The collection, storage and disposal of medical solid wastes is a growing environmental problem in Tanzania which needs immediate attention before it goes out of hand. While the Government of Tanzania is making efforts to expand medical services by allowing private hospitals in the country, the management of medical wastes has received little attention despite their potential environmental hazards and public health risks. This paper discusses the results of a study on management of medical wastes in small hospitals and dispensaries in Dar es Salaam city. The study revealed that medical wastes are not properly managed in most hospitals and dispensaries. The medical facilities are characterized by inadequate and inappropriate refuse storage facilities, lack of refuse collection services, improper disposal methods and inadequate and inappropriate protective gear for refuse handlers. A number of remedial measures to improve the situation including the construction of a commercial incinerator in the city are suggested.