These are commonplace medical waste disposal practices that can occur.
Does your facility ever make mistakes while disposing of medical waste? There are regulations at the state, local, and federal levels that must be respected while disposing of medical waste. This is to preserve the safety of people and the planet. Many mistakes can occur during the disposal process, and we want to address them so that they don’t happen at your facility. These are commonplace medical waste disposal practices that can occur.
Disposing Solid Waste and Labeling it as Regulated Medical Waste
This is possibly the most commonplace error on our list. More often than you may think, staff will dispose of solid waste and consider it to be regulated medical waste (RMW). You should only dispose of solid waste as RMW if the waste in question has made contact with materials that have been contaminated.
Many people have become too laid back when disposing of waste, and they don’t consider how dangerous it can be to mislabel the waste that gets disposed of. Not only is it dangerous, but it can also cost healthcare facilities a hefty amount of money because disposing of regulated medical waste is more expensive than disposing of solid waste.
Medical Waste Management Training Varies Between Medical Staff Members
Medical staff have to be taught how to properly manage and dispose of medical waste. Not only that, but the training has to be consistent across all staff members. Every staff member has to be on the same page during medical waste disposal.
Fortunately, many organizations, such as OSHA and the EPA, provide resources that help healthcare facilities craft training programs that will keep their employees and facilities safe.
Medical Waste Isn’t Transported in Accordance to State and Federal Guidelines
Not all facilities treat and transport their medical waste as they should. Some issues are fairly common, such as having medical waste transported using the wrong containers or using haulers that are not permitted to move medical waste that exceeds 50 pounds.
There can be serious repercussions if you do not abide by the regulations that are put in place, so be sure you’re aware of all of the regulations that must be followed.
Medical Waste Gets Disposed of and Treated in Manners That Can Harm the Environment
Make sure that your medical waste disposal methods aren’t detrimental to the environment. To check if what you’re doing is okay, you can consult all of the local and state laws regarding how to manage your waste. Organizations such as DOH (Department of Health), the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) have regulations in place that you should reference before you determine how to handle your medical waste.
Choose AEG Environmental as Your Medical Waste Management Company
Our team can handle any type of waste you put in front of us. Don’t risk your safety and health! If there has been a hazardous mess of any kind, call us today and get the best medical waste management services available!