Solid waste storage, collection and disposal practices in private health institutions in Ibadan, Nigeria

Healthcare institutions are service-oriented establishments and they provide medical care comprising observational, diagnostic, research, therapeutic and rehabilitative services. This study investigated waste collection, storage and disposal practices in the selected private health institutions (PHIs) in Ibadan metropolis, Nigeria. Primary data were obtained through questionnaire administration and direct observation. A total of 100 questionnaire was administered to private health institutions in Ibadan metropolis of which 30 were not returned. Findings revealed that the prominent storage receptacle utilized by these health institutions was perforated covered refuse bin. This represented 29.3% in the selected health institutions. The next in importance was plastic drums without cover and handles (24.4%). The study also observed that, waste collection was done mainly by private waste collector which accounted for 75.7%. In most of the PHIs, waste were collected monthly (34.3%) and this waste littered the environment as waste collectors stay away for weeks without attending to the waste generated. The study identified twenty one waste disposal methods used by various health institutions in the study area. The study concluded that waste was disposed of by private waste collectors (77.1%). Thus, the study recommends that; a consistent public enlightenment and environmental sensitization for all the managers and waste management officers of the health institutions. To this end, storage containers should be of adequate size with side handles, tight-fitting covers, leak-proof, light in weight and easily cleanable. In conclusion, Enlightenment programme is recommended to educate the private health institution operators on the consequences of indiscriminate waste disposal.