Medical Waste and Their Dangers in Public
7/26/2021
It is a known fact that medical waste is some of the most hazardous waste thrown into landfills. Without proper disposal, these wastes can pose a considerable threat to the community, environment, water systems, and wildlife.
Below are a few of the biggest dangers brought by improper medical waste disposal to the public.
- Medical Waste Can Cause Injuries
Medical wastes such as broken glass, syringes, needles, and other sharp or broken objects can cause injuries to humans and animals.
- Medical Waste Contain Hazardous Chemicals
Mercury coming from thermometers, solvents, batteries, and disinfectants all contain toxic chemicals which can potentially contaminate the surrounding land, air, and water.
- Medical Waste Can Cause Infections
Blood, feces, urine, and other bodily fluids coming from humans and animals can cause infections and spread diseases.
- Medical Waste Contain Genotoxic Substances
Cancer treatments may use substances such as carcinogenic, teratogenic, and mutagenic, which are highly genotoxic.
- Medical Waste May Contain Radioactive Materials
Diagnostic and radiotherapy materials are highly radioactive.
- Medical Waste Can Pollute Water Systems
The fluids and hazardous substances coming from medical waste can easily make their way into water supply systems and contaminate the water. Thus, people are at risk of drinking and using contaminated water.
- Medical Waste Can Negatively Impact The Environment
Without proper medical waste disposal, the environment could easily suffer, and landfills will be packed to the brim.
Conclusion
As medical waste is hazardous for the community and the environment, medical facilities need to take proper medical waste disposal seriously.