Clinical Waste Disposal

Following the guidance of The Department of Health’s HTM 07-01 Safe Management of Healthcare Waste Memorandum, Reconomy, working with trusted supply partners, follow a color-coded guide to categorise this type of hazardous and non-hazardous waste found in clinical waste streams.

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Disposal of clinical waste regulations uk

Clinical waste management refers to any waste type that is commonly generated by our customers in the medical and care. Medical waste materials require specialist segregation and disposal when organising a clinical waste collection, and Reconomy are the company to help you with any commercial waste collections.

When it comes to clinical waste management, Reconomy recognises the importance that all clinical waste collection and disposal must comply with the UK’s strict compliance and regulations, which is why we help customers all across the country meet the criteria.

What is clinical waste

What is clinical waste?
Which legislation governs clinical waste disposal?

Clinical waste, also known as medical waste or healthcare waste, is any waste that may pose a threat of infection to human health. This can include waste materials such as discarded needles, syringes, blood-soaked bandages, and more.

Clinical waste disposal is governed by several key pieces of legislation and regulations, primarily in the UK. Here are the main ones:

Environmental Protection Act 1990

This UK waste management law mandates businesses that handle controlled waste, including clinical waste, to manage it safely and protect the environment and human health. Find out more about The Environmental Protection Act 1990 by clicking the link.

Carriage of Dangerous Goods Regulations 2019

These regulations outline the requirements for transporting clinical waste, which is classified as dangerous goods. They mandate that individuals involved in the transportation process of clinical waste must undergo ADR training to ensure safe handling and limit the risk of spills and other hazards.

Health Technical Memorandum (HTM) 07-01

This document provides detailed guidance on the safe and sustainable management of healthcare waste, including clinical waste. It covers aspects such as waste classification, storage, and disposal, and is particularly relevant for healthcare providers.

Waste Duty of Care Code of Practice

This code of practice, part of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, provides guidelines for the safe management of waste to protect the environment and human health. It applies to anyone who imports, produces, keeps, or disposes of controlled waste, including clinical waste.

European Waste Catalogue (EWC)

The EWC provides a framework for classifying waste, including healthcare and clinical waste. This classification is crucial for ensuring that waste is treated and disposed of appropriately based on its hazardous properties.

These legislative and regulatory frameworks collectively ensure that clinical waste is managed in a way that minimises environmental harm and protects public health.

What are the 3 types of hazardous items?

contains viable microorganisms that can cause disease in humans
Contaminated with medicine or biologically active pharmaceutical agent
Sharps, body fluid or other biological material contaminated with a dangerous substance

What are the 4 Non-haz clinical categories?

Segregated non-cytotoxic or non-cytostatic medicines
Clinical waste from municipal sources nor directly associated with healthcare (e.g. needles swabs from piercing/tattoo studios)
Anatomical waste that has no risk of infection
Non-haz sharps (but may still be classed as dangerous goods)

Why is proper disposal of clinical waste important?

Proper disposal of clinical waste is crucial to prevent the spread of infections and diseases. It helps protect healthcare workers, patients, and the human health of the general public from potential risks associated with exposure to infectious waste.

Who is responsible for the disposal of clinical waste?

Healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and medical offices, are usually responsible for the clinical waste management within their premises. They must adhere to regulations and guidelines set forth by local authorities.

Are there regulations governing the disposal of clinical waste?

Yes, various regulations and guidelines govern the disposal of clinical waste in the UK. Healthcare facilities must comply with these regulations to ensure safe and environmentally responsible disposal practices. If your business needs assistance with clinical waste disposal that meets legislation, please get in touch.

How can I safely handle clinical waste?

Handling clinical waste requires proper training and adherence to safety protocols. It’s essential that your workforce is using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and face masks, when handling potentially infectious materials.

How to dispose of clinical waste

Effective management of clinical waste is crucial for ensuring public safety and environmental protection. Incorrect disposal can lead to contamination, spread of infections, and harm to both healthcare workers and the general public. By partnering with Reconomy, we show your business how to properly handle and dispose of clinical waste in compliance with legal and safety regulations by: