Why Safe Storage & Disposal of Waste Is Crucial

College campuses around the United States provide students with a wealth of opportunities to learn, grow and discover what path they wish to take for their future. But these institutions must also ensure that they are providing a healthy and safe environment for all students, staff and their communities. With that, comes the responsibility of properly disposing of medical waste generated on campus, especially those universities with research labs, student wellness centers and health clinics. Here’s a quick guide to the types of waste generated in colleges and why universities must dispose of waste properly.

Type of Waste Generated on College Campuses

Colleges and Universities can generate medical waste in a variety of settings including the following:

Laboratory Waste

Universities that have research facilities on campus are typically conducting various types of research including biological, chemical and even animal studies. These laboratories can generate biological and pathological waste, including:

• Biological waste
• Hazardous substances
• Bodily fluids
• Tissue samples
• Potentially infectious agents
• Cultures
• Genetically modified organisms
• Animal waste including tissues, blood, carcasses
• Chemicals & contaminated solutions

Pharmaceutical Waste

Colleges that conduct pharmaceutical research and offer degrees in medicine, pharmaceuticals, dental programs and similar degrees can generate numerous types of pharmaceutical waste including expired or unused medications, vials, lab slides and more. Safe disposal of these pharmaceuticals is crucial to prevent possible exposure to the environment and public health. 

Sharps Waste

In university research settings, the use of needles, syringes and other sharp objects is common. The proper handling and disposal of sharps waste are critical to prevent injuries and reduce the risk of infections.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Gloves, masks, gowns, goggles and other items used by students, campus healthcare providers and lab techs can generate medical waste that contains possibly infectious materials.

Dental Waste

Universities with dental programs or onsite dental clinics can generate several types of waste including amalgam waste, extracted teeth, gauze and other types of materials with blood and/or saliva.

Proper Disposal is Crucial

College campuses must properly collect, store and dispose of medical waste they generate to protect their student body, staff, faculty and the community. If not, they are risking possible exposure to dangerous pathogens that can cause illness and injury. In addition, those institutions that do not follow state and federal mandates of medical waste disposal are in danger of being found non-compliant which can result in violations and hefty fines.

All Points Medical Waste provides medical waste disposal services to college campuses throughout Florida. We are a family-owned and operated company located in Stuart, Florida. Give us a call today or complete the form on this page to get a quick quote.