Improper Medical Waste Disposal Issue in Sapporo, Hokkaido - January 2011 Approximately 10 tons of improperly disposed medical waste were discovered abandoned in public areas in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The abandoned waste included infectious materials such as approximately 5,000 syringes, blood-stained gauze, and about 200 bags of used gloves. It was primarily found on vacant lots and former warehouse sites. This has raised concerns about the risk of infectious diseases affecting approximately 300 households in the surrounding area. Investigations revealed that five medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, were involved in the disposal.

Improper Medical Waste Disposal Issue in Sapporo, Hokkaido - January 2011 Approximately 10 tons of improperly disposed medical waste were discovered abandoned in public areas in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The abandoned waste included infectious materials such as approximately 5,000 syringes, blood-stained gauze, and about 200 bags of used gloves. It was primarily found on vacant lots and former warehouse sites. This has raised concerns about the risk of infectious diseases affecting approximately 300 households in the surrounding area. Investigations revealed that five medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, were involved in the disposal.

As an emergency response, Sapporo City began waste removal operations. Approximately 7 tons have been processed so far, and disinfection work has also been carried out. The cost for processing the remaining untreated waste is estimated at around 30 million yen, and the city plans to secure the budget. Additionally, the medical facilities involved in the disposal were fined a total of 20 million yen.

As a recurrence prevention measure, the city will hold four annual training sessions for medical facilities to ensure proper medical waste disposal. It has also distributed 10,000 awareness posters throughout the city to alert residents. This has led to a growing recognition of the necessity for proper medical waste management. This issue highlights the importance of suppressing infectious disease risks and strengthening waste management.