Medical Waste Management Operator

Job Description

Job Purpose

The Medical Waste Management Operator is responsible for the safe collection, segregation, transportation, treatment, and disposal of medical and hazardous waste within the hospital environment. The role ensures compliance with hospital hygiene, infection control, and environmental regulations to prevent contamination and safeguard public health. The individual plays a critical part in maintaining a clean and safe hospital environment by adhering to strict waste management protocols.

Core Responsibilities

Collection and Segregation of Medical Waste:

• Collect and sort medical waste from different hospital units, including wards, operating rooms, and laboratories.
• Ensure waste is properly segregated into categories such as infectious waste, sharps, pharmaceutical waste, and general waste.
• Use color-coded waste bins and biohazard containers according to hospital and environmental guidelines.
• Educate hospital staff on correct waste disposal practices when necessary.
• Keep accurate records of waste collection, types, and volumes.

Safe Handling and Transportation of Waste:

• Follow strict safety procedures when handling and transporting medical waste within hospital premises.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and protective suits.
• Operate waste transport equipment such as carts, trolleys, and automated disposal units safely.
• Ensure waste is moved promptly from hospital units to designated waste storage and treatment areas.
• Prevent spills, leaks, and exposure to hazardous substances by using sealed containers.

Waste Treatment and Disposal:

• Assist in the operation of waste treatment systems, including incinerators, autoclaves, or chemical disinfection units.
• Ensure the proper disposal of medical waste in accordance with hospital policies and government regulations.
• Monitor and report any malfunctions in waste treatment equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in waste disposal areas.
• Coordinate with external waste disposal companies to ensure safe off-site waste disposal.

Compliance with Environmental and Safety Regulations:

• Adhere to national and hospital-specific waste management regulations, including health and environmental policies.
• Conduct routine inspections of waste disposal areas to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Report any breaches in waste management protocols to the waste management supervisor.
• Participate in hospital audits and inspections related to waste management.
• Assist in training hospital staff on waste management best practices.

Record-Keeping and Reporting:

• Maintain logs of waste collection, transportation, and disposal activities.
• Document incidents of waste spills, exposure, or equipment failure.
• Submit reports on waste volume, type, and disposal methods to the waste management supervisor.
• Assist in the preparation of regulatory compliance reports.
• Suggest process improvements for waste handling and disposal.

Qualifications

Educational Requirements

• B.Sc. or HND in Business Administration, or any related field

Professional Requirements

• Certificate or training in waste management, environmental science, or occupational health and safety

Experience Requirements

• 1-5 years of experience in medical waste handling, environmental services, or a related field.
• Prior experience in hospital, healthcare, or industrial waste management is an advantage

Competency Requirements

Knowledge Requirements

• Knowledge of hospital waste disposal guidelines and biohazard safety
• Knowledge of medical waste segregation and disposal regulations.

Skill Requirements

• Ability to operate waste treatment equipment such as incinerators and autoclaves.
• Proper use of PPE and hazardous waste handling procedures.
• Basic understanding of infection control and hospital hygiene.
• Record-keeping and reporting skills for waste management documentation.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills. Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.

Personal Abilities

• Attention to detail to ensure proper segregation and disposal of waste.
• Strong organizational skills to manage waste collection and treatment efficiently.
• Physical stamina to handle waste collection and transportation duties.
• Commitment to workplace safety and environmental protection.
• Ability to follow strict protocols and work independently or as part of a team.
• Strong commitment to safety and a proactive approach to safety management.

Additional Information

African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja) aims to be an Employer of Choice, providing equal opportunity for everyone regardless of their background, gender, race and other protected characteristics.