Alarm raised over malfunctioning incinerator at Oshakati hospital
Concerns have been raised over the management of infectious medical waste at Oshakati Intermediate Hospital following reports that the facility’s incinerator and cold room used for hazardous waste storage have not been fully operational since December.
During a visit to the hospital this week, Namibian Sun observed that part of the incinerator had started burning medical waste on Wednesday, although the process appeared to be operating at a very slow pace.
Hospital officials on site indicated that arrangements were being made to have the incinerator fully repaired.
The reported malfunction has raised fears about the safe handling of infectious waste, particularly at a busy referral hospital serving much of northern Namibia. Community members and health workers have expressed concern about potential health and environmental risks linked to the improper disposal of hazardous medical materials.
Namibian Sun further understands that cats and dogs have in recent weeks accessed areas where infectious waste is stored, raising additional concerns about contamination and public safety.
When approached for comment, acting medical superintendent Dr Benonia Sheetekela said she was unable to comment on the matter and referred this reporter to the health ministry's head office.
Efforts to obtain official responses from the health ministry spokesperson Walters Kamaya proved unsuccessful at the time of going to print.
During a visit to the hospital this week, Namibian Sun observed that part of the incinerator had started burning medical waste on Wednesday, although the process appeared to be operating at a very slow pace.
Hospital officials on site indicated that arrangements were being made to have the incinerator fully repaired.
The reported malfunction has raised fears about the safe handling of infectious waste, particularly at a busy referral hospital serving much of northern Namibia. Community members and health workers have expressed concern about potential health and environmental risks linked to the improper disposal of hazardous medical materials.
Namibian Sun further understands that cats and dogs have in recent weeks accessed areas where infectious waste is stored, raising additional concerns about contamination and public safety.
When approached for comment, acting medical superintendent Dr Benonia Sheetekela said she was unable to comment on the matter and referred this reporter to the health ministry's head office.
Efforts to obtain official responses from the health ministry spokesperson Walters Kamaya proved unsuccessful at the time of going to print.
Comments
Namibian Sun
No comments have been left on this article