In Mozambique, where infectious diseases are prevalent, effective waste management is crucial to maintaining a clean and hygienic environment in health facilities. Incinerators, commonly used for medical waste disposal, play a critical role in this effort. However, the availability, maintenance and functionality of incinerators in health facilities in Mozambique remains unclear. This survey aims to assess current practices in the use of incinerators in health facilities in Mozambique.
Mozambique faces significant challenges in terms of medical waste management, particularly in rural areas. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 50% of health facilities in Mozambique do not have appropriate waste management facilities, including incinerators (WHO, 2017). This lack of proper waste management can lead to the spread of infectious diseases as well as environmental pollution.
A total of 30 health facilities in Mozambique, including hospitals, clinics and health centers, were surveyed for this study. Data was collected through questionnaires and observations, focusing on the availability, use and maintenance of incinerators at each facility.
The survey results indicate that 70% of health facilities surveyed have incinerators installed, while 30% do not. Among facilities with incinerators, 60% reported regular use, while 40% reported occasional or rare use. The majority (80%) of health facilities with incinerators reported that they were operational, while 20% reported that they were not operational due to maintenance or other issues.
Despite the presence of incinerators in most facilities, several challenges and constraints have been identified. The majority of health facilities surveyed (90%) reported limited or no training on the safe operation and maintenance of incinerators. Additionally, 70% of facilities reported insufficient fuel supplies for incinerators, which can lead to non-operational incinerators.
The results of this survey highlight the importance of incinerators in Mozambique’s health facilities, as well as the challenges and constraints these facilities face in maintaining functional incinerators. Recommendations for improving the use and maintenance of incinerators in health facilities in Mozambique include providing training on the safe operation and maintenance of incinerators, improving fuel supply and establishment of a regular maintenance program. Additionally, the government should invest in waste management infrastructure, including incinerators, to ensure a safe and healthy environment for healthcare workers and patients.
WHO (2017). Medical waste management. World Health Organization.
Comments are closed