Context:

• According to the study, Perinthalmanna in Kerala has an effective system for managing biomedical waste.

What is biomedical waste?

• Biomedical waste is any waste produced during the diagnosis, treatment, or immunization of human or animal research activities pertaining thereto or in the production or testing of biological or in health camps. 
• The basic principle of good BMW practice is based on the concept of 3Rs, namely, reduce, recycle, and reuse.

Perinthalmanna model of Biomedical Waste Management

• Healthcare facilities in Perinthalmanna segregate their waste at the time of generation itself. 
  • Colour-coded trash cans are used for this purpose.
• Special containers and puncture-resistant bags are installed in various locations.
• Each container has a unique QR code for each healthcare facility. So whenever the bags are filled, the healthcare facility scans the QR code and uploads the information into the mobile application of the agency authorized with waste management.
• The agency is then notified and dispatched to the respective healthcare facility to collect, treat and dispose of the waste in accordance with the procedures. 
• An agency under the Indian Medical Association is responsible for safely managing biomedical waste, which they treat at a facility in the Palakkad district of Kerala.