Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Reduces Medical Waste with New Incinerator

Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Reduces Medical Waste with New Incinerator

Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret, Kenya, has implemented innovative measures to tackle the issue of medical waste generation and disposal through the installation of a new state-of-the-art incinerator. This groundbreaking initiative aligns with the hospital’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The Challenge

MTRH, like many healthcare facilities in Kenya, faced significant challenges in managing medical waste. Improper disposal practices raised environmental and health concerns. The hospital generated large volumes of infectious and non-infectious waste daily, posing risks to both healthcare workers and the local community.

The Solution

The hospital acquired and installed a high-quality medical waste incinerator. This advanced technology features:

• Efficient waste destruction capabilities, ensuring safe and responsible disposal of potentially hazardous materials.
• Temperature control and air pollution reduction measures to minimize environmental impact.
• Automation and control panel for operator safety and efficiency.

Benefits

The new incinerator offers multiple benefits to MTRH:

• Improved waste management: Elimination of infectious and hazardous waste through thorough incineration.
• Enhanced safety: Protection of healthcare workers and the community from potentially dangerous waste.
• Cost savings: Reduction in waste disposal costs through efficient burning.
• Increased sustainability: Decreased environmental footprint through responsible waste management.

Implementation and Training

The installation process involved extensive planning and training. Medical staff, including nurses, doctors, and waste management personnel, were thoroughly trained on operating and maintaining the incinerator safely and efficiently. Regular monitoring and audits ensure adherence to safety regulations.

Future Vision

MTRH envisions a future where it can further enhance its environmental stewardship by exploring options for additional waste reduction and reuse. Initiatives such as implementing segregation protocols for different types of waste, pursuing partnerships with recycling companies, and promoting waste reduction measures throughout the hospital are currently being explored.

FAQs

1. What type of medical waste is incinerated?

The incinerator primarily handles infectious and biohazardous waste, including contaminated gloves, dressings, sharps, and other potentially infectious materials.

2. How does the incinerator reduce air pollution?

The incinerator features advanced air pollution control systems such as scrubbers and filters to capture harmful pollutants before release into the atmosphere.

3. What are the long-term benefits of this project?

Improved waste management reduces healthcare costs, enhances environmental sustainability, and protects both human health and the ecosystem in the long run.