A Guide to Biohazard Waste Disposal Training

Every healthcare facility that handles contaminated items must have some training to deal with those situations. Hospital waste disposal is a serious business that protects workers and patients from becoming infected with any diseases. In fact, biohazard waste disposal companies play a critical role in controlling those removal protocols. Take a look at the training requirements for hospital waste disposal in order to protect everyone at each medical facility.

Annual Checkups

In most cases, biohazard waste disposal companies require a yearly training meeting regarding contaminated-substance handling. This requirement isn’t based on individual waste-company policies, however. The federal government creates the requirements throughout the healthcare industry. These meetings should involve the healthcare workers who are constantly in contact with human-liquid waste, such as blood or urine. Regulations and protocols change each year based on solid, scientific evidence within the healthcare industry.

Proper Container Handling

Every person coming into contact with biohazard waste needs to have proper training surrounding its handling. When a container is opened, it should be accessed with care and closed immediately afterward. If any healthcare workers have habits of leaving the containers open for a short period, they must be trained to change this behavior. An open container might tempt children or patients to take a look and injure themselves as a result.

Labeling Considerations

Part of the training experience should also involve proper labeling. Each container or bag that’s dedicated to hazardous waste needs to have official seals noting their use. Without labeling, other workers or patients might mistake the container for a trash receptacle. The labels must be clearly seen on the container’s exterior. If the label has been compromised in any way, it must be replaced or pulled from medical rotation.

Alternative Containers

Although waste containers should be emptied on a regular basis, there may be times when a facility becomes so busy that they’re instantly full. Don’t continue to fill the containers because overflow is a hazard too. Use another container that’s either orange or red for safety’s sake.

In most cases, biohazard waste disposal companies have a representative assigned to each medical facility. This relationship between parties should be a comfortable one that takes place at least once a week. Concerns over container applications can be discussed while problem solving develops within the conversation. By working together, healthcare facilities and hospital waste disposal companies can create sterile conditions as contaminated items continue to move through the system.