(COVID-19) Coronavirus Disease Biohazard Waste Disposal Tips From Secure Waste
In this article, Secure Waste will discuss the proper packing of COVID-19 Coronavirus, the strain on healthcare facilities, and the strain on Supply chains during COVID-19.
At Secure Waste, we actively follow the COVID-19 situation and its impact on infection control practices for medical waste management. We are dedicated to ensuring that the waste produced during the care of patients affected by the virus is handled responsibly and safely. Secure Waste operated medical waste disposal and processing in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C. Our passionate team is proud to support healthcare facilities locally, including quarantine centers, and uphold the highest standards in medical waste management during these challenging times.
The CDC advises that medical waste from treating COVID-19 patients and individuals under investigation should be handled following standard procedures to ensure safety and effectiveness in our healthcare practices.
Rest assured, the Department of Transportation (DOT) imposes no extra packaging or transportation requirements for regulated medical waste or sharps. This simplification makes compliance more manageable for all involved.
Secure Waste is excited to remind our valued customers about the importance of following established regulations for handling regulated medical waste and sharps, especially in light of COVID-19. While there haven’t been new guidelines from the CDC or other agencies, adhering to DOT regulations for proper packaging remains crucial. We’re here to support you in maintaining compliance with a safe and effective waste management process. Thank you for your commitment to safety and responsibility!
Secure Waste To Package and Dispose of COVID-19 Waste
Generators are responsible for packaging waste before it is transported to treatment facilities. It is important to note that Secure Waste Technicians do not package waste. Each waste bag must be closed by gathering and twisting the neck of the bag, then securing it with a tie or hand knot. Additionally, each container must be securely closed. When a secondary container such as a box or reusable tub is closed, closed bags should not be visible.
Containers that are improperly packaged or damaged will either be denied pickup or returned to the generator. Furthermore, reusable sharps containers should not be placed in Regulated Medical Sharps Waste (RMW) containers. Instead, they should be positioned on the racks for standard processing.
In 2020, the quest for adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) and supplies to test and treat COVID-19 in the United States truly tested our resilience and adaptability. As we witnessed a surge in cases and the rollout of vaccines, the importance of efficient supply management and waste reduction has remained at the forefront of our efforts this year.
While medical waste, such as isolation gowns, gloves, masks, needles, syringes, and vials, is somewhat inevitable, there’s a silver lining! Supply chain leaders are stepping up and finding inspiring ways to minimize waste through innovative recycling and reuse strategies. By rethinking procurement and packaging practices, these leaders are making strides not only for environmental sustainability but also for the financial health of healthcare organizations.
Understanding Medical Waste
Though the term PPE gained prominence during the pandemic, it has long been a critical part of healthcare.
Isolation Gowns
Medical gowns, which follow gloves in terms of usage, are essential PPE in healthcare settings, with over 80% of isolation gowns in the U.S. being disposable. However, as hospitals face case surges and an increasing need for frequent gown changes, the cost and availability of disposable gowns have become significant concerns. Together, we can pave the way for a more sustainable future in healthcare, where both our planet and our communities thrive!
Secure Waste is excited to share the CDC’s resource page, a fantastic tool for vital information. Additionally, OSHA offers valuable guidance on ensuring the safety of healthcare employers and employees, including key standards to prevent and document COVID-19 exposure. We are dedicated to keeping our customers and team well-informed about these important regulatory updates, prioritizing safety and health every step of the way!
