National Health Care Waste Management Guideline
Issued by Department of Health Services · 2014
In short: Sets national standards for safely separating, storing, treating and disposing of health care waste in hospitals and clinics.
Overview
The guideline puts into practice the health care waste duties in Nepal's environmental and health laws. It promotes waste separation at the source, colour-coded bins, non-burn treatment such as autoclaving, and staff training.
Key provisions
- Waste is separated where it is produced, into colour-coded containers.
- Sharps and infectious waste are handled safely.
- Autoclaving and other non-burn treatment are preferred over open burning.
- Each facility has a waste management committee, training and monitoring.
Why it matters
Poor waste handling causes needle-stick injuries, infections and environmental pollution, and lowers quality of care.
What it means for practitioners
- Separate waste at the point of care. Never recap needles.
- Use the facility waste management checklist during quality audits.
Frequently asked questions
What colour bins are used for health care waste in Nepal?
The national guideline uses colour-coded containers for different categories, such as infectious, sharps and general waste. Follow the colour chart in your facility's waste plan.
Related guides
Editorial summary by PHC-Nepal for education only. It is not legal advice. Laws may be amended, so always check the official text.