Protect Texas Coast with Proper Biohazard Disposal
Earlier this month, hundreds of syringes and needles washed up on the Jersey Shore, forcing beachgoers from the water. Investigations determined that it was the result of people flushing medical supplies, such as those for diabetes.
Biohazard medical waste disposal is vital to protecting the environment and the people who inhabit it. These materials can otherwise end up in lakes and parks, causing harm to animals and plants. They also can contaminate groundwater and the air, causing health problems or even death.
The information below will tell you everything you need to know about biohazard removal, disposal, and treatment. It also provides some tips on things you can do to keep these tragedies from happening in your community.
Biohazard Basics
A biohazard is a material that contains blood, body fluids, or human or animal cell lines. They can contaminate the environment and threaten public health.
Medical waste is a specific type of biohazard. It refers to discarded medical supplies from laboratories or clinical settings.
Biohazard waste can pollute oceans, lakes, and streams. It can seep from landfills into groundwater, which can affect drinking water sources. Burning medical waste in incinerators produces toxic fumes that can pollute the air.
Biohazard Medical Waste Disposal
The complete biohazard management regimen involves several steps. The first is cleaning up the materials. Medical waste disposal companies will know what precautions to take and the equipment needed for safe cleanup.
They also will be able to safely transport medical waste. Next, they will separate the toxic materials from harmless ones. Medical waste disposal companies can then determine storage and disposal methods.
What Can I Do?
There are some very basic things you can do to make your home or business safe from biohazards. One is properly storing them before disposal.
First, get the proper holder, such as a sharps container for needles and syringes. Be sure to keep them away from small children. When the container is three-quarters full, dispose of it according to community guidelines.
Most local health or waste management departments will have collection sites or drop boxes. These include doctors’ offices, hospitals, pharmacies, or even police or fire stations. Some areas have the option of mailing containers to collection agencies.
These easy biohazard medical waste disposal steps can keep harmful materials out of landfills, water sources, and the air. You can feel good knowing that you have done your part to help protect the environment and public health.
Find Proper Medical Waste Disposal Near You
Now that you have an idea of what biohazardous waste is, you take precautions to handle it and know when to call a professional. If you face a major biohazard accident, be sure to contact a prominent company that has a history of medical waste cleanup.
Since 2008, MedSharps has provided biohazard medical waste disposal and treatment services to communities throughout the country. We pride ourselves on attention to detail and safety. Reach out to us today for more information or to schedule service.
