by Dominique Phillips
The COVID-19 pandemic has created several new challenges for manufacturers throughout the world. One specific issue is the increased amount of waste. As organizations increase the amount of personal protective equipment, such as face masks and gloves, employees are required to wear, business leaders have begun asking, “how do I dispose of this PPE?”
Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have not issued specific guidelines for the handling of waste and recycling materials related to COVID-19, Cornerstone has put together this guidance to be followed as a best practice.
WASTE GENERATION
The general guidance that OSHA uses for medical waste is if the person or item is “known or suspected” to be hazardous. It is the generator’s responsibility to determine if a waste is known or suspected to be hazardous, and in this situation, infectious.
Under most circumstances PPE waste generated in industrial settings is not considered regulated medical (infectious) waste and can be treated as solid waste. Waste materials that are
not assumed to be contaminated do not require any special precautions and, according to the CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO), can be managed as they typically would for the flu.
Waste that
is suspected or known to be contaminated with COVID-19 should be handled like other regulated medical waste and managed in accordance with the CDC and OSHA’s routine procedures.
Here are some common questions related to the management of COVID-19 waste.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I dispose of PPE employees wear while working?
If PPE is not known or suspected to be contaminated, employers may dispose of it as solid waste in their normal trash. However, some local solid waste and health departments are creating special rules for the current pandemic and employers should confirm with these agencies if there are specific rules or guidelines in place for disposal.
What if I suspect that PPE is contaminated with COVID-19?
If the PPE is grossly contaminated, it should be managed as medical (infectious) waste and contained in a manner that will protect waste handlers and the public from contracting the disease. To prevent exposure to medical waste, OSHA states that workers should use appropriate engineering and administrative controls, safe work practices, and PPE, such as puncture-resistant gloves and face/eye protection. The medical waste may include sharps and other items that can cause injuries or exposures to infectious materials. Furthermore, contaminated PPE should be labeled with the biohazard symbol and disposed in accordance with infectious waste management regulations.
Where can I find more information about managing infectious waste?
Infectious waste should be managed in accordance with local and state regulations. Please visit your waste management agency’s website for specific guidelines. If you need assistance with making a waste determination of any of the information mentioned above, please contact Cornerstone today at
info@corner-enviro.com or (800) 285–2568.
Dominique Phillips is an Environmental Specialist for Cornerstone Environmental, Health and Safety. She regularly consults with clients in the areas of environmental compliance with a focus on sustainability and practical strategies.