Abstract

Christine K Mugambi*, George Orinda and Isaac Mwanzo

Background: WHO defines Biomedical Waste (BMW) as any waste that is generated during the diagnosis, treatment, or immunization of human beings or animals or from research activities, and contains potentially harmful microorganisms which will infect hospital communities and the general public. Poor Health Care Waste Management (HCWM) can jeopardize the safety of health workers, waste handlers, patients and their families, and the neighboring population. In addition, the inappropriate treatment or disposal of that waste can lead to environmental contamination or pollution.

Objective: This study investigated compliance of biomedical waste standards among waste handlers in selected health facilities in Kajiado County, Kenya.

Design: Descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted utilizing both qualitative and qualitative sampling techniques in the selection of health facilities as well as study participants. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire, interviews, and an onsite observation checklist. A total of 259 participants from all cadres (doctors, nurses, lab technicians, pharmacists, support staff, and administrative staff) were enrolled in the study.

Results: Compliance with biomedical waste management standards was associated with gender (p=0.024), knowledge of waste categories (p=0.031), training on BMWM (p=0.050), colour code for general waste (p=0.001), use of PPEs (p=0.003), point of waste segregation (p=0.000), BMWM audits (p=0.014), and immunization status (p=0.000).

Conclusions: Compliance with biomedical standards was only 15.4%, well below the required level. Factors such as knowledge, gender, practices, training, and facility audits contributed to this. Increased awareness of health-care waste risks and safe, ecofriendly management practices is needed to protect handlers.