On January 21, 2025, the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) issued an important notification aimed at streamlining the regulatory process for Non-Bedded Healthcare Units (HCU) and healthcare units with less than 30 beds that generate Biological Medical Waste.
This new move is part of an effort to improve the ease of doing business while ensuring that small healthcare units in the state comply with environmental and health safety regulations. Here’s a breakdown of the key points from the GPCB notification:
Key Requirements for Healthcare Units
Healthcare units with fewer than 30 beds must obtain consent under the Water Act-1974, Air Act-1981, and Biological Medical Waste Management Rules-2016.
These units must apply for consent from the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) and are also required to follow the guidelines set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Streamlined Process for Consent and Authorization
To support Ease of Doing Business, the GPCB has simplified the consent process for smaller healthcare units:
No On-Site Inspection Initially: Applications for consent and authorization will be processed based on merit without the need for on-site inspection in the initial phase. This aims to accelerate approval for small healthcare units.
Processing Time: All applications received by the Regional Authority will be decided upon within 15 days, provided the necessary documents are submitted.
Post-Authorization Inspections: While the initial consent and authorization will not require an on-site inspection, inspections will be conducted within 90 days after the consent has been granted. These inspections will ensure that the healthcare unit complies with the relevant environmental and medical waste management rules.
Compliance Responsibility
In accordance with CPCB guidelines, healthcare units with fewer than 30 beds must appoint a qualified person to oversee the management of biological medical waste. This person will be responsible for ensuring that the unit complies with the terms of consent and authorization, and adheres to all necessary rules and regulations.
Objective of the Notification
The aim of this initiative is to simplify the regulatory process for smaller healthcare units, particularly in light of the rapid growth of the healthcare sector in Gujarat. By reducing red tape and speeding up the process, the GPCB hopes to facilitate smoother operations for small healthcare providers while ensuring that environmental and safety standards are still met.
CONCLUSION :
Healthcare providers with fewer than 30 beds should ensure they meet these new requirements and appoint a qualified person to manage compliance. The GPCB’s streamlined process is designed to encourage responsible business practices while improving the overall health and environmental standards in the state.
