Backgrounds & objectives: Improper management of infectious waste cause environmental pollution and transmission of diseases through contact of susceptible groups with this type of waste. Due to mismanagement of infectious waste, development and improving the current management system are necessary. The aims of this study were to investigate the current status of infectious waste management in imam-khomeini hospital complex in Tehran and suggesting appropriate managerial solutions.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was implemented from March to June 2014 in imam-khomeini hospital complex, Tehran. Th required data were collected using a questionnaire approved by World Health Organization for hospital waste management through field survey. Data analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel and IBM SPSS softwares.

Results: The average infectious waste generated in imam-khomeini hospital complex was 1380 kilogram per day. The average of waste produced in summer was significantly higher than those in spring (p<0.01). Results showed that separation of infectious and non-infectious waste at the sources was not appropriatly performed in the hospital. Also the treatment of infectious waste was conducted by hydroclave technology.

Conclusion: According to the results, the high percentage of infectious waste indicates many problems in segregation stage. In order to solve this problem, implementation of training programs is highly recommended for hospital personnel to promote personnel awareness on proper waste segregation.