Waste Segregation and Packaging
The keys to minimization and effective management of health care waste are segregation (separation) and identification of the waste. Appropriate handling, treatment, and disposal of waste by type reduce costs and do much to protect public health. Segregation always should be the responsibility of the waste producer, should take place as close as possible to where the waste is generated, and should be maintained in storage areas and during transport. The same system of segregation should be in force throughout the country.
The most appropriate way of identifying the categories of health care waste is by sorting the waste into color-coded plastic bags or containers. The recommended color-coding
scheme is given in Table 114-1. In addition to the color coding of waste containers, the following practices are recommended:
● General health care waste should join the stream of domestic refuse for disposal
● Sharps should be collected together, regardless of whether or not they are contaminated. Containers should be puncture-proof (usually made of metal or high-density plastic) and fitted with covers. They should be rigid and impermeable so that they safely retain not only the sharps but also any residual liquids from syringes. To discourage abuse, containers should be tamper-proof, and needles and syringes should be rendered unusable. Where plastic or metal containers are unavailable or too costly, containers made of dense cardboard are recommended.