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The Do’s and Don’ts of Medical Waste. Medical waste is a type of regulated waste that is generated from medical activities, including healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices. Although, other businesses can generate medical waste such as, tattoo shops and medical spas. Proper management of medical waste is essential for the safety of workers, patients, and the environment. In this article, we will explore the different types of medical waste, the do’s and don’ts of medical waste management, and how to safely dispose of medical waste.
Medical waste is defined as any type of waste that is generated in the diagnosis, treatment, or immunization of humans or animals. It includes sharps, pharmaceuticals, body fluids, and other materials that may be contaminated with infectious agents.
Sharps are any needle-like objects that can potentially cause injury, including needles, scalpels, and lancets.
Pharmaceuticals are drugs, medications, and other similar substances.
Medical waste is classified as biohazardous waste, which means that it must be handled and disposed of properly to ensure the safety of the public and the environment. Improper disposal of medical waste can result in environmental contamination, the spread of infectious diseases, and other health risks.
Medical waste can be divided into four main categories: General Waste, Infectious Waste, Hazardous Waste, and Radioactive Waste.
General Waste – General waste is just regular waste that goes in the everyday garbage can.
Infectious Waste – Any waste that could cause an infection in humans or animals, blood, human tissue, or anything contaminated with bodily fluids. This is what most people mean when they say medical waste, also known as regulated medical waste, infectious waste, biomedical waste, and biohazardous waste.
Hazardous Waste – Dangerous waste, but not infectious waste, some examples would include, chemical waste, chemotherapy waste, and medications that meet the hazardous definition.
Radioactive Waste – this is waste generated because of radioactive treatments; an example would be cancer therapies.
When managing medical waste, there are several things to keep in mind.
When managing medical waste, there are several things to avoid.
Proper packaging of medical waste is essential for safe disposal. All medical waste should be placed in a sturdy, leak-proof container and sealed when full.
The container should be labeled with the type of waste, the date it was collected, and the name of the facility, as well as any other relevant information.
Sharps should be placed in a puncture-resistant container with a tight-fitting lid. The container should be labeled with the type of waste, the date it was collected, and the name of the facility.
Pharmaceuticals should be placed in a separate container and labeled according to the type of drug and the expiration date.
When the medical waste container is full, it should be sealed and stored in a secure area until it is ready to be disposed of. It is important to keep the container closed and sealed at all times. The container should only be opened by the medical waste disposal company.
Medical waste should always be segregated according to type for safe disposal. Sharps and pharmaceuticals should be placed in separate containers, and any other waste should be segregated according to waste type. This ensures that all types of medical waste are properly handled but most importantly, treated and disposed of in the correct manner.
There are specific regulations and laws in place to ensure the safe disposal of medical waste. These regulations vary from state to state, so it is important to check with your local government to make sure you are in compliance.
In addition to state regulations, the federal government has set guidelines for the transportation and handling of medical waste. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that all medical waste be properly labeled and packaged, and that all containers be properly stored and maintained.
Medical waste should be disposed of in accordance with all applicable regulations and laws. In most cases, medical waste must be taken to a medical waste disposal facility for proper treatment and disposal. These facilities have the necessary equipment and processes to ensure that medical waste is disposed of safely and in accordance with all regulations.
Bio-MED Medical Waste Management collects, transports, treats, and disposes of your medical waste.
With our company owned inhouse medical waste processing plant, we are able to provide high quality services at economical prices.
Conclusion
Medical waste is a type of biohazardous waste that must be handled, treated, and disposed of properly to ensure the safety of workers, patients, public, and the environment.
Proper management of medical waste includes following all applicable regulations and laws, segregating medical waste according to type, and properly packaging and labeling all containers.
Contact Bio-MED today for a free quote on our Medical Waste Management system, tailored specifically for your facility. Experience the Bio-MED difference high quality services at economical prices.
