The importance of enhancing safety in hospital waste supply chain

The increase in the demand for medical care has resulted in a corresponding rise in the generation of medical waste, which necessitates distinct management due to its potential to transmit pathogens. This article aims to shed light on the various risks and challenges associated with the different tasks in hospital waste supply chains. The evolution of the concept of safety over the years in supply chains related to medical waste was also analysed, as well as the number of publications in different countries. The findings reveal that in 2023, there was the highest number of publications addressing safety in supply chains, with the United States, India and China having the most publications. This study underscores the significance of supply chains adhering to safety regulations in the management of hospital waste and that the provision of adequate training to employees can mitigate environmental and social risks, along with the associated costs. One of the study’s limitations is the paucity of case studies, which precludes analysis of results before and after improvements to supply chain safety.