Emerging practices of healthcare waste management among private surgeries: A case of the City of Tshwane

Abstract

Background: This study presents the emerging practices of healthcare waste (HCW) management prevailing in most private surgeries within the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. This study examined the existing norms and standards of HCW management to unravel the minimum lawfully acceptable practices in South Africa and the world.

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the management of HCW in private surgeries within the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality.

Setting: The study was conducted in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng province, South Africa.

Methods: A mixed research methodology was employed in collecting and analysing data collected from 109 professional doctors, dentists, nurses, administrative staff and cleaners working in private surgeries.

Results: The findings revealed that private surgeries generated 98.17% of infectious waste, while 1.83% was general waste. Most containers adhered to South African National Standards guidelines, but knowledge gaps were found regarding treatment and disposal methods. A total of 92.7% of private surgeries used private companies for waste collection, transport and disposal. Those who used private waste management companies were given Waste Manifest documentation as proof of disposal at an approved facility.

Conclusion: Private surgeries in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality managed hazardous HCW satisfactorily, but improvements in container usage and waste handling procedures are recommended.

Contribution: The findings of the study can be used to develop comprehensive HCW management guidelines for private surgeries, to help them better manage the HCW they generate.