Guidelines for Proper Medical Waste Segregation
9/14/2020
Proper waste segregation and disposal are important anywhere but it is even more vital in medical institutions such as hospitals. This is because such institutions often deal with items that have been or can be contaminated with infectious pathogens.However, there are certain guidelines these institutions need to follow in order to properly dispose of their hazardous and non-hazardous wastes.
Guidelines on Medical Waste Segregation. So, how should these medical and health care institutions segregate their wastes?
1. Identification. The first step is by identifying the kind of waste and disposing of them in their pre-determined containers. By identifying them, they will know which container the waste will go into.
2. Segregation. Second is to segregate them according to their type. Each waste should be categorized into the criteria which state governments determine. For example, medical waste can be categorized as “regular” waste, radioactive waste, or hazardous waste. In addition, all personnel in the facility should be trained and taught how to identify each type of waste so they may segregate them accordingly.
3. Disposal. Once they have been appropriately segregated, the waste can now be disposed of in their respective containers. These containers should be moisture-resistant and must be structurally sound.This is to avoid any dripping, leaking, and spilling of hazardous waste during its storage, handling, and eventual transportation. These containers must also be appropriately labeled for easier identification and disposal.
2. Segregation. Second is to segregate them according to their type. Each waste should be categorized into the criteria which state governments determine. For example, medical waste can be categorized as “regular” waste, radioactive waste, or hazardous waste. In addition, all personnel in the facility should be trained and taught how to identify each type of waste so they may segregate them accordingly.
3. Disposal. Once they have been appropriately segregated, the waste can now be disposed of in their respective containers. These containers should be moisture-resistant and must be structurally sound.This is to avoid any dripping, leaking, and spilling of hazardous waste during its storage, handling, and eventual transportation. These containers must also be appropriately labeled for easier identification and disposal.
Final Thoughts
Proper segregation of medical waste can help prevent the further spread of diseases and infectious pathogens, especially in medical institutions where almost everyone is exposed. This is to ensure the safety and health of all those present in the facility, whether they are health care professionals or patients.