Page 217 - AJWEP-22-5

Knowledge into practice: Managing bio-waste

Table 8. BMWM status of Telangana state This study evaluated the understanding, perceptions,
Parameter Value and actions regarding BMWM among HCWs in the state
Total number of HCFs 9346 of Telangana, India. Nonetheless, certain limitations
must be acknowledged. The study focused on a specific
Number of bedded HCFs 4830 geographic region with a relatively modest sample size,
Number of non-bedded HCFs 4516 which may limit the generalizability of its findings.
Total number of hospital beds 132332 Future research should expand to include broader
Number of CBWTFs 11 geographic areas and larger, more diverse samples.
Number of HCFs granted authorization 5036 Such studies could also explore the long-term impact of
Number of HCFs utilizing CBWTFs 9346 training programs on knowledge retention and practice
Number of HCFs with CTF 0 improvement.
Overall, this investigation emphasizes the vital role
Number of captive incinerators operated by 0 of continuous education, institutional commitment,
HCFs and policy-level engagement in advancing BMWM
Quantity of BMW generated (kg/day) 25306 practices. Bridging the existing knowledge-practice gap
Quantity of BMW treated (kg/day) 25306 among HCWs – especially in under-resourced settings
Number of HCFs/CBWTFs that violated BMW 188 – requires a coordinated, multidisciplinary effort to
rules foster long-term improvements in public health and
Number of show-cause notices/directions issued 188 environmental safety.
to defaulting HCFs/CBWTFs
Note: Adapted from Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) 5. Conclusion
annual report on BMWM (2022).
Abbreviations: BMW: Biomedical waste; BMWM: Biomedical The proper disposal of BMW is essential for protecting
waste management; CBWTFs: Common biomedical waste public health and safeguarding the environment – an
treatment facilities; CTF: Captive treatment facilities;
HCFs: Healthcare facilities; PEP: Post-exposure prophylaxis; imperative that has become even more pronounced in
PPE: Personal protective equipment. the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing
increase in medical waste generation. This study,
competencies than other HCWs; however, significant conducted in the Nalgonda and Warangal districts of
gaps remain among sanitation workers and paramedical Telangana, reveals that while HCWs generally possess
aides – a finding supported by the present study. 26-30 The adequate knowledge of BMWM, notable gaps persist
implementation of training and continuous education is in training and practice. Although the majority of
crucial to enhance the knowledge and practices of all HCWs showed a positive attitude toward BMWM,
HCWs involved in BMW stewardship. Well-structured the findings highlight the need for enhanced guidance
training programs, featuring engaging workshops and and motivation to ensure consistent and effective
hands-on sessions, have proven to significantly elevate implementation. Addressing these deficiencies through
the understanding and practices of healthcare staff, proper training and support is essential for minimizing
even among those with minimal prior exposure, such the risks associated with BMW and enhancing overall
as class IV workers. 23,31-32 Moreover, the introduction of waste management practices.
systematic training interventions has shown remarkable Health and sustainability are inherently
effectiveness in boosting awareness and compliance interconnected. Sustainable practices in healthcare and
with BMWM protocols across various healthcare other sectors play a pivotal role in reducing the risks
settings. 33,34 The urgency for such educational initiatives associated with environmental pollution and waste
is underscored by the dangers linked to improper BMW mismanagement. By adopting sustainable methods,
handling, such as needlestick injuries and exposure to healthcare systems can mitigate health hazards, enhance
infectious agents, which can have dire consequences public well-being, and strengthen resilience against
for both HCWs and the wider community. 35-37 Thus, environmental challenges. Moreover, sustainable waste
it is imperative for healthcare institutions to prioritize management not only protects human health but also
regular and thorough training programs to ensure that conserves ecosystems – ensuring a safe and healthy
all front-line personnel are armed with the essential environment for future generations.
knowledge and skills to safely and effectively manage The United Nations’ Sustainable Development
BMW. 23 Goals, established in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda

Volume 22 Issue 5 (2025) 211 doi: 10.36922/AJWEP025090058