General Medical & Infectious Waste Management Procedure-Niugini Medical Clinic

1. Segregation:

- Segregate infectious waste at the source to prevent cross-contamination.

- Use color-coded bins or bags for different types of infectious waste.

-All sharps and needles are disposed into sharps containers

2. Collection:

- Trained personnel should collect infectious waste using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

- Ensure proper labelling on containers, indicating the type of waste and any associated risks.

3. Storage

- Store infectious waste in secure, leak-proof containers.

- Keep storage areas well-ventilated and secure to prevent unauthorized access.

- Regularly inspect and maintain storage containers.

4. Transportation 

- Transport infectious waste using dedicated, authorized vehicles.

- Follow regulations for transporting hazardous materials.

- Minimize handling during transportation to reduce the risk of accidents.

5. Treatment:

- Treat infectious waste using approved methods such as autoclaving, incineration, or chemical disinfection.

- Monitor and record treatment parameters to ensure effectiveness.

- Ensure compliance with environmental regulations during the treatment process.

6. Disposal:

- Dispose of treated waste in accordance with local NCD, & National Regulations at Baruni Waste Managements Centre

- Maintain records of disposal methods and destinations for auditing purposes.

- Consider recycling or waste-to-energy options when applicable and safe.

7. Training and Education:

- Train staff on proper waste segregation, handling, and disposal procedures.

- Conduct regular refresher courses to keep personnel informed about updated protocols.

8. Emergency Response:

- Develop and communicate emergency response procedures in case of spills, accidents, or other incidents.

- Provide appropriate spill kits and equipment in designated areas.

9. Documentation:

- Maintain detailed records of waste generation, collection, treatment, and disposal.

- Ensure all documentation complies with regulatory requirements.

10. Regular Audits:

- Conduct regular audits to assess the effectiveness of the infectious waste management process.

- Implement improvements based on audit findings.

Always consult with local health and environmental authorities to ensure compliance with specific regulations in your region.