Combating coronavirus: How Abu Dhabi deals with Covid waste

Authorities in Abu Dhabi have taken additional measures to handle Covid-19-related waste such as face masks, gloves and other personal protective equipment (PPE). The Centre for Waste Management in Abu Dhabi (Tadweer) said it has provided additional waste containers “where needed”.

“This is coupled with thorough environmental, safety and health protocols and supervision for all the employees deployed in ... waste collection and transportation services,” Mubarak Al Ameri, department director, Collection and Transport Projects at Tadweer, told Khaleej Times.

Residents found littering used PPE are being fined and warned by the authorities concerned, the official said. Employees are routinely trained to deal with such waste.

“We have introduced suitable picking tools to be used in the removal of illegally disposed masks and gloves along the streets, alleys, open areas and others. We ensure that the personnel wear the required PPE,” said Al Ameri.

In order to protect the environment, Tadweer said it has stepped up field inspections to identify locations where Covid waste is dumped to clear them around the clock.

Dr Farida Al Hosani, the official spokesperson of the UAE health sector, had said in April that PPE litter could contribute to the spread of Covid-19. "Masks should be disposed of properly in waste bins."

ismail@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai
• Abu Dhabi