Medical waste can be any item that was once used to diagnose or treat a disease and now is no longer useful. Even when it has done its job, it can be dangerous for the human body as it is known to give rise to numerous diseases.

Medical waste was once packed in recyclable bags and tossed off in the trash. Later on, it was discovered that these waste materials could come in contact with the human body and react with the body fluids, giving rise to several diseases. Since then, proper methods have been in use to dispose of medical waste.

Here are three types of wastes:

Solid Waste

Any item that is being used in the process of diagnosing or treating a patient can be counted as solid waste. This kind of waste is contaminated with body fluids as they come in direct contact with a patient’s body. Gloves, towels, pipettes, etc., can be considered solid waste.

Liquid Waste

All bodily fluids, including blood, can be considered liquid waste.

 Sharp Waste

Any item or material that can pierce the skin can be considered as sharp waste. This type of waste is contaminated with body fluids and infections that are further exposed to the environment. Needles, scalpels, slides, syringes, etc., can be considered as sharp waste.

Methods to Dispose of Medical Waste

· Landfill Disposal

Medical waste is produced every day in a large quantity. Pharmaceutical waste can be landfilled in small quantities provided that they are dispersed into the ground properly. Ensure that only general waste is landfilled. Refrain from disposing of drugs into the ground.

· Incineration

Incineration is the ideal method of disposing of large quantities of pharmaceutical waste. However, it should be carried out properly. The waste should be mixed with other combustible waste and packed with cardboard packaging to ensure optimal combustion.

Cytotoxic waste is extremely hazardous and can be dangerous for anyone that comes in contact with it. It should be disposed of carefully. Otherwise, the risks of dangerous diseases are quite high.

Incineration of cytotoxic waste at high temperatures is the only effective yet safe way of disposing of this perilous waste material. Temperature up to 1200°C is required for the full destruction of this waste.

· Encapsulation

Encapsulation is another effective way for medical waste disposal. The solid and liquid wastes can be encapsulated in large metal drums that are later on landfilled.

A large quantity of waste should not be landfilled unless it is encapsulated in a solid container properly. Make sure that the pharmaceutical waste is disposed of in a sanitary landfill site so that the risk of groundwater contamination can be reduced.

Final Word

Medical waste disposal is important for various reasons. These waste materials impose health risks that can be fatal for kids and adults alike. All the aforementioned methods of waste disposal require precision and professional touch. Therefore, you should not do it on your own. Hire New Jersey Shredding Company to dispose of the waste material in a safe yet professional manner so that it does not pose any harm to those in the immediate vicinity.