MANAGEMENT OF DENTAL WASTE IN A DENTAL HOSPITAL OF LAHORE

It is a descriptive study based on personal observations at Punjab Dental Hospital, Lahore carried out over a period of two weeks. A structured checklist was made to collect the data regarding the management of Dental hospital waste and filled in by observation. Final analysis was made with the help of Epi info 2002 statistical package. There was no categorization and segregation of infectious waste at the point of origin. Bags and containers for infectious waste were not marked with Biohazard symbol. White bags were not available for the general waste. There is no incinerator, storage site and landfill sights in the dental hospital. Transportation of waste within the hospital is through open baskets. Dental Hospital sends its infectious waste to the Children Hospital Lahore for incineration twice a week. Amalgam/mercury, X-ray develo- per and fixer waste were drained through main sewage system. Sanitary workers are not pro- vided with the protective clothing, gloves, masks and shoes. Waste management at Punjab Den- tal Hospital is not satisfactory. Interest and motivation in hospital waste management is lack- ing. The administration is required to play its role.