Medical waste disposal in Georgia

 

Medical waste is broadly classified as any item that comes into contact with body fluids. Specifically, it is any solid waste that is generated in the diagnosis, treatment or immunization of humans. This type of waste was once collected in special bags and plastic boxes in clinical settings and then disposed of like normal trash. Medical waste disposal in Georgia  However, this process was quickly found to spread diseases and viruses and potentially cause outbreaks. Today, the red biohazardous containers and bags seen throughout hospitals and doctors’ offices are used to safely remove sharps, needles, and IV catheters that contain any human blood or bodily fluid. Medical waste also includes paper towels, wipes, gloves, syringes without needles, bandages or dressings with small amounts of dry blood or fluid, and any other material from medical care. Syringes with needles or sharp objects that can pierce through a plastic bag require a special storage  The proper management of regulated medical waste is crucial not only to avoid regulatory fines, but also to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Medical waste – also known as biohazardous waste, sharps waste, biomedical waste, or infectious waste – is a byproduct of healthcare facilities and commercial businesses. But what is the proper medical waste disposal?  Infectious waste – It describes waste that could cause infections to humans. This category includes blood-soaked bandages, human or animal tissue (blood or other body parts), discarded cultures, surgical gloves, stocks, or swabs to inoculate cultures. Much of this medical waste could also be labeled as pathological waste, which requires specific treatment and disposal (read on to find out more).