Onsite Treatment of
Biohazardous Waste
Progressing Medical Waste Management
Introduction
The safe disposal of biohazardous or regulated medical waste is a critical concern for any life science facility. Traditionally, this involves multiple transport steps and human contact points, from storage to autoclaving, incineration, and landfill. However, a growing number of facilities in Ireland, the UK, and the US are discovering the benefits of onsite medical waste treatment. This piece will explore the reasons behind this rising shift in biohazardous waste management, including advancements in medical waste recycling and treatment technologies.
Reduced Regulatory Risk
One of the biggest advantages of onsite treatment is the significant reduction in regulatory risk. Here’s why:
- Generator Liability: Even after offsite transport, the legal responsibility for biohazard waste disposal ultimately falls on the waste source or “generator.” This means that if the waste isn’t properly destroyed or spills during transport, the generator – not the transporter – could face financial and/or reputational repercussions.
- For instance, in Erie, Pennsylvania, US, in 2019, a truck carrying medical waste overturned, spilling needles and other contaminated sharps waste into a nearby Walmart parking lot.
- By rendering waste safe and unrecognizable at the source of generation, onsite treatment greatly reduces this risk, particularly for those in regulated medical waste treatment companies.
Mitigating Health Risks
Another key benefit of onsite treatment lies in minimizing health risks. Every time biohazardous waste changes hands, the potential for worker exposure increases. This includes healthcare workers at the generator facility, transportation personnel, and staff at the offsite treatment centre.
- In the US, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) emphasizes the importance of minimizing worker exposure to bloodborne pathogens in their Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. Onsite treatment significantly reduces the number of “touchpoints” for live waste, minimizing the risk of exposure throughout the medical waste treatment process.
Beyond Safety: Efficiency Gains
Onsite treatment offers additional advantages beyond safety. It can:
- Reduce Transportation Costs: Eliminating the need for transportation cuts associated costs like fuel, vehicle maintenance, and driver salaries.
- Streamline Waste Management: Onsite treatment allows for a more controlled and efficient waste management process.
- Improve Sustainability: Reduced transportation, autoclaving, and incineration translate to a lower carbon footprint, aligning with the goals of biohazardous waste recycling.
The Future of Medical Waste Recycling and Treatment
Onsite treatment technology has become increasingly sophisticated and accessible, making it a viable option for facilities of all sizes across key regions. Whether you’re considering a new waste disposal system or looking to improve your current practices, exploring onsite treatment is a worthwhile investment in the safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance of your biomedical disposal waste.
Envetec GENERATIONS®
Envetec’s GENERATIONS® is a novel clean technology solution engineered for the life science industries. Our validated technology is installed on-site and can enable the recycling of up to 100% of plastics in a safe, effective, and sustainable way. GENERATIONS is non-thermal and utilizes a biodegradable chemical. The system’s unique capabilities convert biohazardous waste into a recyclable flake that is safe for transport and recycling. This is a game-changer for biohazardous waste treatment companies seeking to enhance their clinical waste collection and disposal methods.
Making the Switch
Considering the benefits of onsite treatment, it’s clear that this approach to medical waste recycling and treatment offers significant advantages. By integrating Envetec’s GENERATIONS® technology, facilities can ensure the safe and sustainable disposal of biomedical waste. This innovative system not only addresses biohazard waste disposal but also promotes genuine recycling, transforming waste into high-value polymer resources, ideal for regions focusing on medical waste management improvements.
Contact Us
Contact us now to learn more about GENERATIONS® and how you can create clean change. Embrace the future of medical waste management with our cutting-edge solutions.