A simplified model for biomedical waste management in dental practices - A pilot project at Thane, India

Abstract

A lot of biomedical waste (BMW) is generated in dental practices, which can be hazardous to the environment as well as to those who come in contact with the materials, if not dealt with appropriately. Most of the rules world-wide are not specific for dental BMW management and hinder easy understanding by dental practitioners. Because of lack of clear-cut guidelines either from Dental Council of India or Government of India or Indian Dental Association (IDA) on disposal of dental wastes, this article is designed to explore and review on these issues and formulate a simplified scheme. The guidelines by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board from the directives of The Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India through BMW (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998, (BMW-MH-98), similar guidelines being followed elsewhere in the world, the local BMW disposal company's rules and the IDA's Clinic Standardization Program guidelines. We developed and implemented a simplified waste segregation protocol for practicing dentists and dental hospitals. A methodological dental waste segregation protocol was required considering its disposal and ill-effects on health and the environment. The simplified scheme provided a good model to be followed in developing countries like India. The scheme improved understanding among dentists because of its self-explanatory nature.

Awareness about biomedical waste management and knowledge of effective recycling of dental materials among dental students

“…[1] According to the WHO fact sheet, approximately 20% of waste generated by various health care units is reported to be hazardous. [7] Rapid urbanization and population growth has led to more and more number of hospitals and private clinics.…”

“…Biomedical waste is generated in hospitals, nursing homes, blood bank, and pathological laboratories during diagnosis, treatment, or immunization of various diseases. [1]…”

Knowledge and awareness regarding biomedical waste management in dental teaching institutions in India- A systematic review

“…BMW management should be strictly implemented and monitored in a systematic and simplistic manner by authoritative bodies in India and other developing countries. The governmental bodies should take responsibility of making these services available to the practicing dentists as well as dental hospitals ( 19 ). The authors recommend similar studies in different states and further research to provide accurate data for future decision-making.…”

Adverse Effects of Mercury and Some Management Options to Reduce Dental Amalgam Waste

“…In addition to these sources, residential sources also contribute to environmental mercury which comes from human waste, laundry greywater, and certain consumer products The releases of mercury from dentistry has been receiving attention in recent years. Studies (Chin, 2000, Condrin et al, 2004 found that dentistry contributed only a small fraction -less than 1 % -to total mercury releases and recent studies (Baghele, 2013, more reference) estimate these releases at 3-4 %. In Oregon, the total this rate is about 1.5 % (DEQ, 2006).…”