Medical waste management in Jordan: A study at the King Hussein Medical Center

Journal Article · Fri Jul 01 04:00:00 EDT 2005 · Waste Management

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wasman.2005.03.011· OSTI ID:20875667

Oweis, Rami ^[1]; Al-Widyan, Mohamad ^[2]; Al-Limoon, Ohood ^[1]

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1. Biomedical Engineering Department, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid 22110 (Jordan)
2. Biosystems Engineering Department, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid 22110 (Jordan)

As in many other developing countries, the generation of regulated medical waste (RMW) in Jordan has increased significantly over the last few decades. Despite the serious impacts of RMW on humans and the environment, only minor attention has been directed to its proper handling and disposal. This study was conducted in the form of a case study at one of Jordan's leading medical centers, namely, the King Hussein Medical Center (KHMC). Its purpose was to report on the current status of medical waste management at KHMC and propose possible measures to improve it. In general, it was found that the center's administration was reasonably aware of the importance of medical waste management and practiced some of the measures to adequately handle waste generated at the center. However, it was also found that significant voids were present that need to be addressed in the future including efficient segregation, the use of coded and colored bags, better handling and transfer means, and better monitoring and tracking techniques, as well as the need for training and awareness programs for the personnel.

• OSTI ID: 20875667
• Journal Information: Waste Management, Journal Name: Waste Management Journal Issue: 6 Vol. 25; ISSN WAMAE2; ISSN 0956-053X
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
JORDAN
MEDICAL ESTABLISHMENTS
PERSONNEL
SEGREGATION
TRAINING
WASTE MANAGEMENT