The Impact of Medical Waste Generated from Respiratory Departments on Indoor Air Quality in Hospitals

Abstract

ABSTRACT:

This study systematically investigates the critical role of medical waste generated in hospital respiratory wards as active, dynamic emission sources compromising Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and escalating the risk of Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs). Employing a descriptive-analytical methodology, the study synthesizes global literature, regulatory frameworks, and engineering standards established by the World Health Organization (WHO), ASHRAE Standard 170, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Joint Commission International (JCI), and CBAHI. Findings demonstrate that inadequate containment of wet respiratory consumables (e.g., ventilator circuits, suction canisters, endotracheal tubes) triggers significant emissions of bioaerosols carrying multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs), fine particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Maintaining continuous negative pressure gradients (≥ -2.5 Pa), optimal air exchange rates (12–15 ACH), dedicated 100% exhaust systems, and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA 99.97%) filtration are identified as essential technical barriers. The study proposes an integrated conceptual framework transitioning hospital waste protocols into a 'Smart IAQ Management System' coupled with real-time IoT sensors and Building Management Systems (BMS).