An investigation into the radiological waste management of selected centers in Kano metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: There is a need for every radiological facility to have an effective method of waste management for environmental protection and cost-effectiveness. Most of the waste produced by the facilities could be reclaimed and recycled for medical and industrial purposes. Study Aim: This study aims at investigating radiological waste management in some selected centers in Kano metropolis. Materials and Methods: The study design is descriptive in nature. Using purposive sampling method, eleven centers were selected. These are the hospitals and private centers that use automatic, manual, or both processing methods in their units. An unstructured interview was conducted with the technician in-charge of the various processor units. The audio-taped interview was converted to text notes for content analysis. The data were analyzed using standardized, open-ended content approach. Samples of spent solutions were analyzed for silver concentration using quantitative analysis. Results: Film processing units of radiological facilities in Kano metropolis drained their spent radiographic films processing solutions directly into general drainage system without being treated. The waste radiographic films and X-ray film packages were being discarded into dustbins. Quantitative analysis shows a high concentration of silver in the spent solutions; the average concentration of silver in spent developer, rinse, fixer, and wash solutions was found to be 1.4 mg/L, 0.9 mg/L, 5.2 g/L and 2.8 mg/L, respectively. Conclusion: There is no systematic system of waste disposal in Kano metropolis of Nigeria.