ENVIRONMENT AUDITING OF HOSPITALS IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

Environmental Auditing (EA) is a recent concept introduced in Singapore. It originated front the United States of America and has the primary aim of safeguarding the environment. Its introduction in Singapore and other Asian region is consequence of an increasing concern and awareness for environmental improvements. EA in maintenance and management functions brings about considerable cost savings and provision of better environment. EA is part of an Environmental Management System to strive for continuous improvement of the operations through prevention and reduction. It also provides practical feedback for overall environmental assessment. This study attempts to evaluate the extent of EA and its implementation in the various hospitals of Singapore. This is done by the following two methods: * A questionnaire survey of all local hospitals on their awareness and extent of FA implementation * A case study of the Ang Mo Kio Community Hospital where EA is practiced. The questionnaire reveals some reluctance on part of the property managers in implementing EA. Many felt that the various stringent health legislation governing their operations are more than adequate, EA to them is redundant. Findings show that level one of compliance audits are carried out in hospitals. There is clearly a scope for expanding EA as a management tool to the full range of facilities available in the hospitals. The study concludes with suggestions on how EA can be relevant to the Singapore's context.