The United States produces 3.5 million tons of medical waste yearly, but how is it handled? Healthcare businesses are legally responsible for properly managing sharps as they will need to pay hefty fines and risk the health of their employees and patients if they do not. Medical facilities like hospitals, emergency rooms, and clinics can generate up to 5 million tons of waste yearly, making healthcare the second largest industry contributing to landfill waste after the food industry. 

Medical waste encompasses several categories, including trace chemotherapy, pathological, and pharmaceutical waste, all of which require specialized handling procedures. Regulated medical waste is especially dangerous and can include sharps, biohazardous/infectious waste, cultures and laboratory waste, pathological waste, and contaminated animal waste. In fact, 15% of medical waste is classified as hazardous because it is infectious, toxic, or radioactive. For these kinds of waste, they are safely disposed of using a steam sterilizer or incinerator. 

Medical waste is also produced at homes, but home-generated medical waste is not easily regulated, so many unused medications, certain medical devices, and needles end up loose and unprotected in the municipal waste stream. It is best to dispose of medical waste in accordance with state regulations, which may involve pharmaceutical mail-back programs, proper sharps containment and scheduled pickup, or professional device dismantling. 

For healthcare businesses handling medical waste, clear labeling and usage of red and yellow biohazard containers, wearing proper protective gear, and accurate documentation is crucial to ensure accountability and compliance. From reduced environmental hazards and lower energy costs to reduced healthcare costs, many can benefit from effective waste disposal procedures. Learn more about choosing the right medical waste disposal services company for your needs in the infographic below: