Question : DISPOSAL OF IMMUNIZATION WASTE BY HOSPITALS

(a) whether the Government is aware that immunization wastes are not properly disposed of and they are reported to be recycled and reused in various hospitals in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether burning of immunization wastes results in emission of deadly gases which are harmful to human health and environment;

(d) if so, whether the Government has proposed any new technology for disposing of immunization wastes;

(e) if so, the details thereof; ands

(f) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORSTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a)&(b): There are no reports of improper disposal of immunization wastes brought to the notice of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Ministry of Environment & Forests. Immunization waste is also Bio-Medical Waste (BMW) which requires proper treatment and disposal as per the provisions of the Bio-Medical Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1998.

(c) to (f): Burning of syringes generated during immunization is not permitted under the Bio-Medical Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1998, as it may result in emission of harmful pollutants. The stipulated method of disposal of these wastes is disinfection by chemical treatment/autoclaving/microwaving and mutilation/shredding as per Schedule-I of the BMW Rules. Standards for autoclaving and microwaving are stipulated in the Schedule-V of the BMW Rules.