Medical waste is a severe problem. Healthcare facilities receive a considerable amount of infectious and non-infectious waste. Additionally, healthcare facilities across the United States have been held accountable for poor medical waste management and improper disposal of biohazardous materials.

It was reported that the healthcare industry produced approximately 2.5 million tons of non-hazardous waste, with around 25% to 30% of infectious waste being generated annually. 

Keep reading to learn more about why it’s essential to ensure healthcare facilities dispose of medical waste safely.

What is Medical Waste?

Medical waste is a set of potentially infectious human waste materials generated by healthcare facilities, medical research centers and laboratories, blood banks, other blood collection organizations, public health departments, and pharmaceutical companies or pharmaceutical wholesalers.

Medical waste includes materials contaminated with blood, bodily fluids, or other potentially infectious materials. Medical waste can also include sharps, such as needles, scalpels, and lancets, as well as unused medications and chemicals. These materials are considered hazardous waste and can potentially carry pathogens that can cause disease. Proper management and disposal of medical waste are crucial to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and protect the environment.

Now let’s look at why it’s crucial to dispose of medical waste in healthcare facilities properly.

Why is Proper Medical Waste Disposal Important?

Medical waste is a major issue for healthcare facilities. The improper disposal of medical waste can pose significant health and environmental risks to your facility.

Improper Medical Waste Disposal Health Risks:

• Infectious diseases spread through the improper handling of medical waste can lead to illness or even death in patients who come into contact with it.
• Unsanitary conditions caused by improperly handled medical waste lead to increased infection rates among hospital staff members that can result in absences from work due to illness, which affects patient care services provided by these employees and productivity levels within your facility overall.

Environmental Risks

Improperly disposed-of biomedical materials are toxic when they reach landfills or incinerators because they contain chemicals such as mercury (from thermometers), lead (from blood pressure cuffs), and cadmium (from x-ray films). 

These materials also produce greenhouse gases when burned at high temperatures, contributing to global warming – an issue that has become increasingly important due to climate change concerns faced by many countries worldwide today!

Medical Waste Disposal Regulations and Guidelines

Medical waste disposal regulations vary by state and local jurisdiction. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates medical waste disposal in the workplace, while the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets guidelines for adequately handling medical waste at home. Other states may have their own regulations that apply to healthcare facilities as well.

Takeaway

Proper medical waste disposal in healthcare facilities is crucial for the safety of patients, staff members, and the environment. Not only does it help prevent the spread of infectious diseases, but it also reduces the risk of environmental contamination and contributes to a healthier planet. By following best practices and regulations, utilizing technology, and training staff members, facilities can ensure they do their part to properly manage and dispose of medical waste.

Consider Hiring HazmatPros’ Medical Waste Removal Experts

Hire our professionals for the most effective management and disposal of medical waste in Texas. We’re one of the leading medical waste companies in DFW. Our team has years of experience and the know-how to dispose of medical waste safely.

At HazmatPros, we are committed to providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective medical waste management solutions to healthcare facilities across the country. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you properly dispose of your medical waste.