“Large amounts of hazardous waste have been found dumped around King Fahd Hospital in Al-Hufof. The waste includes used syringes and IV solutions, according to local media reports.

“The reporter from Al-Yaum Arabic newspaper who found the waste was told that the disposal company had not arrived to collect it.

“A source at the Directorate of Health Affairs has admitted that this often happens and that the rubbish storage room is often so packed that its door cannot be closed.

http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index.cfm?method=home.regcon&contentID=20120215117626

Adverse press reports are often unwelcome and most will claim that such reports are sometimes over-exaggerated and intended to stir up public disquiet.

In some part, that may be true. However, the local and national press have an important role, in raising concerns and giving voice to members of the public that might otherwise go unheard and unreported.

That is an important role, identifying sooner rather than later deficiencies in waste management standards that regulators do not find from the comfort of their desks. As an early warning system, this is often invaluable.