Hospital Solid Waste Management: A Case Study

Solid waste management practices at a 335-bed hospital were studied, and alternative procedures to improve the solid waste system were analyzed. Solid waste quantities from individual units were determined. Alternatives considered included: (1)Compaction of noncontaminated waste with incineration of remaining contaminated waste; (2)incineration of entire wasteload; (3)pneumatic collection with incineration of entire wasteload; and (4)wet-pulping with discharge to the sewer system. Evaluation of alternatives considered environmental (safety, etc.) and economic factors. Incineration of entire wasteload without pneumatic collection was recommended.