Socio-environmental analysis of health services waste management in clinical laboratories in Ilhéus, Bahia.
handling; sustainability; environment; reverse logistics.
Proper management of waste generated in clinical analysis laboratories is of utmost importance, as these wastes have characteristics that make them a specific category of solid waste. Mostly classified as hazardous, these wastes pose risks primarily in terms of chemical and biological aspects, which increase their potential danger to human health and the environment. The aim of this study was to analyze the healthcare waste management in clinical laboratories in the municipality of Ilhéus, Bahia, considering socio-environmental aspects, and proposing measures to promote sustainable waste management. Information was gathered from the Health Surveillance of Ilhéus to identify the number of active clinical analysis laboratories in the southern region of Bahia. Data collection involved visiting participating laboratories, conducting interviews with technical managers, and observing the waste management procedures. The collected data were qualitatively analyzed to identify the main practices adopted by the laboratories and potential gaps in waste management. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were employed to analyze waste data generated by the nine participating laboratories, considering the types of laboratory waste (infectious, chemical, or common) and the type of material (paper, plastic, metal, glass, wood, latex, cotton, rubber, or sharps). Findings indicated that the analyzed laboratories are not fully compliant with sanitary legislation regarding healthcare waste (HCW). Irregularities were observed in the storage areas of these wastes, including lack of protection against insects and rodents, proximity to public areas, and inadequate access for external collection. Furthermore, it was evident that HCW management in clinical laboratories in the southern region of Bahia requires adjustments to meet the criteria established by ANVISA's RDC nº 222/2018, in order to fulfill all the stages stipulated by current legislation.