Análise da gestão dos resíduos biológicos gerados no Instituto de Medicina Legal – Unidade Mata Sul do Estado de Pernambuco

Abstract

With the advancement of forensic services in the state of Pernambuco, in 2019, the Mata Sul Forensic Science Complex, known as the Regional Unit of Forensic Science of Mata Sul (URPOCMS), was inaugurated with the objective of increasing the efficiency and speed of public service. In this context, this study aimed to develop a protocol for implementing best practices for managing biological waste generated at the Forensic Medical Institute (IML) in Palmares-PE. The methodology used in this study was structured based on action research, which allowed direct interaction with the processes and staff of the Forensic Medical Institute (IML) in Palmares, enabling practical and reflective interventions throughout the research development. This was combined with unsystematic observation, enabling the identification of routines, practices, and challenges in managing biological waste generated at the unit. Additionally, an in-depth inspection of applicable regulations for managing biological waste was conducted, ensuring that the proposed actions were aligned with current legal requirements and recognized best practices in environmental management. This combined methodological approach provided a comprehensive and well-founded perspective, essential for developing an efficient protocol tailored to the unit's specific needs. The research demonstrated that the application of the suggested practices resulted in a significant reduction in the generation of biological waste, promoting greater efficiency in management and environmental awareness among employees. Key outcomes included staff training and capacity building, the detailed documentation of waste generation in control spreadsheets, the creation of a temporary storage facility for waste, and the integration of the 4R’s policy into the unit’s procedures. These actions foster an organizational culture focused on environmental preservation, compliance with legal standards, and the protection of employee health. As final products, the educational booklet and the draft normative instruction were developed to present, in a practical and didactic way, the necessary steps to raise employee awareness and implement best practices in waste management. Thus, this study consolidated an efficient and replicable environmental management model, with the potential to be adapted to other Forensic Science units and healthcare institutions.