The creation of waste in hospitals and medical practices necessitates many unique answers to the questions surrounding how to handle trash. These solutions are necessary because this debris is dangerous when not disposed of properly. Here is a closer look at why medical waste management is important.
Following the Law
One of the things that makes handling medical waste so challenging is the different laws and regulations many states and cities have regarding storage and disposal. At a minimum, medical facilities in the United States must follow the regulations set forth by OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Harsh penalties and fines on violators often serve as the incentive necessary to ensure compliance.
Hurts the People
Another reason why medical waste management is important is the danger it presents. Here are some of the people most impacted by this particular form of debris.
Staff
Staff members are at risk due to their exposure to the waste itself. Sharp needles, bodily fluids, and other threats require employees to remain constantly vigilant. The danger only increases when exposed staff members begin interacting with patients.
Community
The community is also put at risk when medical waste isn’t disposed of properly. It’s critical for this waste to not end up in landfills, as it creates a hazard for individuals living in the area. Waste can also end up in the soil and water supply, ruining local food production.
Prevents Terrorism
Making proper disposal all the more important is the concern among many terrorism experts about the threat of medical waste being part of a large-scale attack. Some medical equipment and supplies are even radioactive and pose a genuine threat.
Patient Perception
In a world of 24/7 news coverage where every citizen has the power to broadcast their message to the world via social media, the last thing you want is to get caught improperly disposing of waste. Not only will it ruin the reputation of your hospital, practice, or company, but it is also ethically wrong to not properly dispose of the rubbish.
At Trash Cans Depot, we take the handling of medical waste seriously. We are a trash can company that cares about serving our clients and respecting the environment.