To ensure the safe discharge of medical wastewater, China has established numerous medical wastewater treatment plants, forming a fundamental infrastructure system for medical wastewater treatment. This system focuses on disinfection and sterilization at the source, effectively cutting off pathways of contamination. In complex environments such as hospitals, especially in high-risk areas for viruses, it is essential to strictly ensure that medical wastewater meets discharge standards after disinfection and sterilization. Pollution sources can be managed in three categories:
1.Implement process disinfection effectively (extending contact time when necessary) and strictly control discharge standards.
When treating medical wastewater, the dosage of disinfectants must be carefully controlled. For instance, if chlorine-based disinfectants are used for sterilization, the residual chlorine levels should be adjusted based on the contact time. For example, if the contact time is extended to about one and a half hours, the residual chlorine should be maintained at 6.5 mg/L or higher. If the contact time is only about one hour, the residual chlorine concentration should be controlled at above 10 mg/L. To determine the appropriate dosage for disinfection and sterilization, the RCl900 Total Residual Chlorine Online Analyzer can be used. This instrument monitors real-time changes in residual chlorine levels in the water. If any (exceeding standards) is detected, immediate action can be taken to ensure that the residual chlorine content in medical wastewater complies with relevant standards (the recommended dosage is 80 mg/L, with coliform bacteria <100 per liter). Of course, residual chlorine is just one of the parameters monitored in medical wastewater online monitoring projects. Another critical monitoring parameter is “coliform bacteria,” which serves as a standard indicator for microbial levels in medical wastewater!
2.Conduct comprehensive disposal and disinfection of sludge throughout the entire process, minimizing human exposure as much as possible to reduce the risk of virus spread. Ensure real-time monitoring in strict accordance with relevant standards and regulations.
3.Prioritize the safety of personnel during work. Staff must strictly wear protective equipment such as work clothes, goggles, face shields, gloves, and other protective gear. Ensure that indoor wastewater treatment facilities are equipped with forced ventilation systems. For outdoor work, only brief stays are permitted to avoid the risk of accidental infection.
