Identification and measurement of hospital waste materials and classification of them according to WHO criteria (Case Study: Amir-Al momenin Hospital and ShahidRajaee Polyclinic of Ahwaz)

Hospital wastes are one of most important environmental problems because of their hazardous, toxic and pathogenic characteristics. The aims of this study were to identify and measure the amount of hospital wastes and classify of them according to WHO criteria in Amirolmomenin(as) hospital and shahid Rajaei policlinic in Ahwaz, sw of Iran. This research was a field-descriptive study. Initially, a questionnaire was designed in the terms of surveying the conditions of collecting, keeping and repelling of the wastes in both medical centres. The questionnaires were completed using direct observation and monitoring at the temporary storage sites of the wates. The wastes were weighted by the health experts of two medical centres using 50 kg balance. In addition, to calculate the density of the waste products, they were discharged in a 0/125m3container. The density of wastes was determinded by dividing the weight by volume. Ressult: Results of the current study showed that the mean of waste product weight was 3/79 kg/bed day in Amirolmomenin(as) hospital.The total weight of waste products including infectious, hazadous and general materials were 59/39, 25/82 and 33/57, respectivelyin shahid Rajaei policlinic, while these measurements were 818.85, 292.94 and 525/89, respectively in Amirolmomenin(as) hospital. The average of specific weight of hospital waste hospital materials were 203/28 kg/m3 and 187/80 kg/m3, respectively in both medical centres. Furthermore, according to WHO classification, both medical centres don’t produce any radioactive wastes and under pressure application containers. According to our findings and with respect to the environmental problems in Ahvaz, it seems that there is a lack of correct management in both medical centres. Therefore, precise implementation programs to separate the waste infectious and general materials from each other is one of the most essential steps in the reducing of environmental and sanitary problems.In addition, it is cost effective from point of hospital waste material management in both remedial institutions.