LEGAL MEASURE TO MANAGE INFECTIOUS WASTE UNDER THE COVID-19 SITAUTION

Abstract

This research aimed: 1. To examine the policies and legal measures for managing infectious waste in Thailand during the COVID-19 pandemic; 2. To analyze the problems associated with these policies and legal measures; and 3. To propose recommendations for improving policies and legal frameworks for infectious waste management in pandemic contexts. This qualitative research considered the impact of infectious waste management on public health and safety. Data were collected through document reviews and policy analysis based on the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan, as well as relevant legislation such as the Public Health Act B.E. 2535 (1992) and the Ministerial Regulation on Infectious Waste Disposal B.E. 2545 (2002).

The findings revealed that, although policies and legal measures were established to address infectious waste management during the COVID-19 pandemic, challenges remained due to weak enforcement mechanisms and unclear communication with the public. These shortcomings resulted in the failure to meet prescribed standards in many areas. Furthermore, the lack of integration among governmental agencies hindered long-term emergency response efforts. Therefore, this study recommended revising existing laws and policies to strengthen emergency management powers, promoting technological advancement in infectious waste disposal, and enhancing inter-agency coordination to ensure efficient and sustainable infectious waste management in future public health crises.