As the United States ramps up COVID-19 vaccine administration, questions are beginning to rise about how to properly dispose of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine remnants. Although disposal protocols may vary slightly from state to state, BWS, in collaboration with the Healthcare Waste Institute, has developed general guidelines below for COVID vaccine waste disposal. In general, disposal of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine-related wastes should follow similar processes for other vaccine-related wastes.

COVID may have halted many in-person activities, but business still goes on, especially in the healthcare and related industries. There are patients to care for, so your services are essential. Frontline workers continue to work in order to keep us going. As COVID-19 continues to influence and many times, change our day-to-day, it’s important to keep your employees and staff up to date on OSHA required training and annual renewals.

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. hospitals and medical practices generate approximately six million tons of solid waste annually. Fifteen percent of the total waste generated by hospitals and medical practices can be categorized as infectious medical waste.

So you’ve just administered a life-changing shot or you’ve completed a successful surgery, what now? You’re left with a sharp object, or multiple sharp objects, that you have to dispose of. It’s not as simple as throwing the objects in a medical waste box, red bag, or letting your local waste management dispose of it without following the proper steps. Here’s what you need to know about properly disposing of your sharps to keep everyone safe and avoid any injuries.

As we enter the Fall season, there are many things your healthcare practice, business, or facility will need to brace for. We’re entering flu season, while still in the midst of a global pandemic. Luckily, many governing agencies have provided full guidelines for taking measures to prepare yourself, your staff, and your workplace. The health experts continue evaluating recommendations and procedures to help keep the population safe and help prevent the spread of highly contagious diseases.