Disposing of what the practice produces.
WHY IT MATTERS
Clinical waste is hazardous, regulated, and improper disposal causes harm and enforcement.
WHAT CATEGORIES TYPICALLY EXIST
Sharps Infectious waste Pharmaceutical waste General waste
WHY SEPARATION MATTERS
Mixing makes all of it hazardous and expensive.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
Separate, clearly marked containers at the point of generation.
WHY AT THE POINT OF GENERATION
Separation attempted later does not happen.
WHAT SHARPS REQUIRE
Rigid puncture-resistant containers Never overfilled Never recapping needles
WHY SHARPS SPECIFICALLY
Needlestick injuries transmit infection and they are common.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH FOR INJURIES
What a staff member does immediately Who is informed What follow-up occurs
WHY IN ADVANCE
The response is time-sensitive.
WHAT STORAGE REQUIRES
Secure, separate from clinical areas, protected from access.
WHAT DISPOSAL REQUIRES
An authorised handler.
WHAT TO VERIFY
That they are authorised, and what happens to the waste.
WHY
Liability can follow improperly disposed waste.
WHAT TO KEEP
Evidence of every collection and disposal.
WHY
Inspectors examine it.
WHAT TO TRAIN
Everyone, on segregation and handling.
WHAT TO NEVER DO
Dispose of clinical waste with general refuse Burn it improperly on the premises
