Avaliação das práticas de manejo de resíduos de serviços de saúde (RSS) na Faculdade de Odontologia /UERJ

Abstract

The health services waste plays an important role in the field of public health, due to the presence of microorganisms and its heterogeneous composition, which might contain toxic, radioactive and cutting substances. In order to minimize the risk of this waste, it is recommended the use of correct waste management. At the University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), in 2005, it was created the Waste Management Group (GERE/UERJ), which is linked to Extension Program about Consumer Defense Studies of UERJ (PRODEC) nowadays. The group s studies aim at subsidizing the Waste Management Plan of this University and has Haroldo Lisboa da Cunha Pavillion, situated at Maracanã, as a pilot test. This study can contribute for the plan and has the objective of analyzing the handling practices of health services waste in the Dentistry College of UERJ (FOUERJ), checking out its efficiency regarding the legislation in vigor. The research consisted on a case study examined by qualitative technique through semi-structured interviews and systematic observations. The clinics and the laboratories of FOUERJ were the analyzed waste producer units. Tree different professional groups were chosen to integrate the study: teachers or supervisors for the selected section; clinic assistants and cleaning team s supervisor. One specific interview form was created for each professional group based on Resolution RDC n° 306/04 - ANVISA and Resolution CONAMA n° 358/05. The obtained results show that there are many points which should be improved in the health services waste handling, mainly the complete separation between common waste and biological one; more adjustment for the intern transport and rubbish; interdiction of chemical waste dumping through the sewerage system. The lack of knowledge about the appropriated laws by the professionals and students makes the situation worse, considering that there isn t training about this subject in the Institution. Another hard obstacle is the few financial resources to implement a Health Services Waste Management Plan (PGRSS). In spite of the observed difficulties, the Institution, as a knowledge disseminator, must not object to its responsibility about the produced waste in its outbuildings. Besides, the Dentistry College should adopt a pro-active position in relation to the environment troubles.