San Diego Medical Disposal-COVID-19 Knowledge Center
Last Updated 3/19/2020
COVID-19 Resources and Services
San Diego Medical Waste is actively monitoring the impacts on our industry as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. As you know, information and guidance is rapidly evolving. We are committed to continue serving you with reliability and care to detail amidst this ever-changing situation. Safety and compliance are at the forefront of our work today, yesterday, and in the future.
Together, we will all do our part.
Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19): Regulated Medical Waste and Sharps Packaging Guidance
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined that medical waste generated in the treatment of COVID-19 patients and patients under investigation (PUIs) be managed in accordance with routine procedures.
There are no additional packaging or transportation requirements from the Department of Transportation (DOT) for regulated medical waste or sharps.
PACKAGING REMINDERS
New regulations or guidance documents have not been created by the CDC or other regulatory agencies specific to handling regulated medical waste or sharps derived from the treatment of COVID-19 patients. San Diego Medical Waste would like to remind you of the importance of following current regulations, especially those from DOT regarding the proper packaging of regulated medical waste and sharps.
The CDC has created a resource page for healthcare professionals seeking answers to commonly asked questions. Check back frequently as we continue to monitor changes and updates from our partners in the local and federal government.
Advice for Healthcare Workers
As recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), health workers should adhere to the following guidance:
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follow established occupational safety and health procedures, avoid exposing others to health and safety risks and participate in employer-provided occupational safety and health training
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use provided protocols to assess, triage and treat patients
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treat patients with respect, compassion and dignity
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maintain patient confidentiality
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swiftly follow established public health reporting procedures of suspect and confirmed cases
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provide or reinforce accurate infection prevention and control and public health information, including to concerned people who have neither symptoms nor risk
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put on, use, take off and dispose of personal protective equipment properly
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self-monitor for signs of illness and self-isolate or report illness to managers, if it occurs
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advise management if they are experiencing signs of undue stress or mental health challenges that require support interventions
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report to their immediate supervisor any situation which they have reasonable justification to believe presents an imminent and serious danger to life or health.