While a majority of medical waste can be classified as non-hazardous, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 15% falls into the hazardous waste category, each of which triggers a particular set of protocols for its management and disposal. In order to minimize the health risks associated with exposure to these potentially infectious materials, physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare providers must take every precaution when managing and disposing of all medical waste.
Waste Regulations
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A brief overview of Medical Waste Management for Hospitals and Clinics
In most states, the EPA is responsible for developing and enforcing regulations for medical waste management. But in some, the Department of Health is involved (e.g., Missouri and Oklahoma) or might even be the primary enforcer (e.g., Colorado)
Hospital Waste Management Best Practices
Medical waste management entails so many rules and protocols you must follow, and under that umbrella, hospital waste management is certainly no exception. There are numerous hospital-specific regulations you must follow in order to be fully in compliance with your facility, state, and federal rules.