Implementation of Waste Segregation Protocols Across Laboratory and Imaging Department

Abstract

Healthcare generates a wide variety of waste that poses risks to human health and the environment. Robust waste segregation protocols facilitate safe waste disposal and promote sustainability. Guidelines for implementing waste segregation measures across laboratory, imaging, and pharmacy departments are described, considering policy, infrastructure, training, and compliance issues. Laboratory departments produce hazardous chemical and pharmaceutical waste, as well as biological material and sharps. Imaging departments generate medical devices, hazardous materials, and radiologic waste, while pharmacy departments handle expired medications and cytotoxic drugs. A systematic approach involving coordinated stakeholder engagement, adequate infrastructure, staff training, and periodic auditing supports effective segregation and mitigates associated risks (Lahoti et al., 2024) ; (Lakshmana Kumar et al., 2021).