Proper management of biomedical waste is of paramount importance because of its infectious and hazardous characteristics. Improper management can result in the following:

1. Fermentation of organic portion to attract fly breeding

2. Increased risk of infections to medical, nursing and other hospital staff

3. Injuries from broken pieces of containers and needles to health workers and waste handlers

4. Poor infection control leading to nosocomial infections in patients particularly HIV, hepatitis B and C •

5. Increase in risk associated with hazardous chemicals and drugs for persons handling wastes

6. Encourages unscrupulous persons to recycle disposables and disposed drugs for repacking and reselling

7. Development of resistant strains of microorganisms.