Color-coded waste bins are used within healthcare settings to categorize waste and avoid spreading diseases. Making sure that the correct waste finds the right bin helps to safeguard everyone. For example, if a used needle is put into the wrong bin, whoever comes to clear the waste is at greater risk of sticking themselves and contracting a range of diseases. As a rule, the colors used for bins follow a worldwide standard. For the safety of everyone, protocols need to be followed. Throughout this article, we will outline the best practices on how to use clinical bins.
Sharp Boxes
Waste should be disposed of immediately to decrease the chances of stick injuries. You should place any needle caps back onto the needle and put them into the clinical waste bin. Your bin needs to have a handle to keep your hands away from the container. When the bin is not being used, you need to engage the locking mechanism. Each bin will have a fill line and needs removing once reached. When you close the bin, you need to write down where it came from and what the fill date was.
Liquid Waste
Waste such as blood requires treatment from a specialist compound before disposal. Once you have rendered any liquids safe, you place them into orange lidded bins which should be leak-proof. Again, for best practices, you should clearly label where the bin has come from and the date it was filled.
Waste Bags
Your average waste bins will contain general waste deemed completely safe. However, bags should weigh no more than 4kg and should only fill your bin to 3/4 capacity. For tracking purposes, you should attach a tag to the bin and write down where it came from.
Storage of Waste
Waste management requires bins to be stored in a secured area away from the path of people. Your waste collection provider should liaise with service users and over-flowed areas should be avoided.
Separating clinical waste is important. As well as ensuring the right waste finds the corresponding bin, you need to follow handling guidelines.
