Is Laboratory Waste Handling Safe? A Local Study on Waste Management Practices in Five Histopathology Laboratories
Abstract
Waste generated in histopathology laboratory
is unique and proper disposal is mandatory to
avoid harmful effects on people and environment.
The objective of this project was to study current
waste management practices in randomly selected
five histopathology laboratories in Colombo
district. Data was collected using semi structured
questionnaires, observations and interviews.
The study identified waste generated in
histopathology laboratories under five categories:
pathological waste, chemical waste, sharps and
glass slides, paraffin blocks and general waste.
The process of waste management in each centre
was studied in the steps of segregation, handling,
storage and disposal. Especially in the step of
disposal of waste, each waste category was
studied separately. Fixed specimens and body
fluids were included under pathological waste.
Fixatives, dehydrating agents, clearing agents
and stains were the major components that were
studied under chemical waste. Sixty percent of
centres had universally accepted practices with
regard to disposal of pathological waste, sharps
and glass slides and general waste. Management
of chemical waste and paraffin blocks were
not satisfactory in majority of the five centres
assessed. The study also revealed that most of
the laboratories were aware of significant steps of
managing waste generated within the pathology
laboratory, although improper management
practices are evident throughout the process.
Finally, as workers of histopathology laboratories,
one needs to aim to join the nation in protecting a
green globe for the next generation.