How Hospitals Regulate Biomedical Waste

 

How Hospitals Regulate Biomedical Waste

Hospitals in India are required to strictly regulate biomedical waste under the Biomedical Waste Management Rules, 2016 (amended in 2018 and 2019), notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. These rules are enforced by the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

1. Authorization

• Every hospital must obtain authorization from the respective SPCB to handle biomedical waste.

• The application includes waste generation details, number of beds, types of waste, and disposal methods.

2.  Segregation at Source

• Waste must be segregated at the point of generation (e.g., OT, wards, labs) into color-coded containers.

Color Code	Type of Waste	Treatment/Disposal
Yellow	Human tissues, soiled dressings, body fluids, expired medicines	Incineration or deep burial
Red	Tubing, catheters, gloves	Autoclaving, microwaving, shredding
White (Translucent)	Sharps (needles, blades)	Autoclaving & shredding
Blue	Glassware, metallic implants	Disinfection and recycling

3. Collection and Transportation

• Waste is collected daily in labeled, leak-proof containers.

• It must be transported in dedicated, authorized biomedical waste vehicles.

• All containers must be labeled with the biohazard symbol.

4.  Treatment and Disposal

• Hospitals must tie up with Common Biomedical Waste Treatment Facilities (CBWTFs) where waste is treated through:

  • Autoclaving

  • Microwaving

  • Shredding

  • Incineration

  • Deep burial (for rural areas)

5.  Record-Keeping & Reporting

• Maintain daily records of quantity and type of biomedical waste generated and disposed.

• Submit annual reports to the SPCB using Form IV.

• Maintain accident reporting for any spillage, injury, or mishandling.

6.  Training & Awareness

• Regular training of healthcare staff on waste segregation and handling.

• Posters and color-code charts displayed in all relevant hospital areas.

7. Barcoding System

• Mandatory barcoding of biomedical waste bags/containers for real-time tracking (as per 2019 amendment).

8. Inspection and Audits

• Regular audits and inspections by SPCB or local authorities.

• Non-compliance can lead to penalties, closure, or legal action.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Fine up to ₹1 lakh or imprisonment under the Environment Protection Act, 1986.

• Hospitals may also lose their license to operate.