Winter support
Colchester Borough Council is providing support for residents, businesses and communities throughout winter.
Hazardous Clinical (Healthcare) Waste
TEST: Article
Information on what is considered Hazardous Clinical waste
IN THIS ARTICLE
- What is considered Hazardous Clinical waste
- Disposal options
Hazardous Clinical (Healthcare) Waste
Waste is considered Hazardous Clinical where a particular risk has been identified (based on medical diagnosis).
Local authorities have a duty to collect household waste including Hazardous Clinical / Healthcare waste from domestic properties. Under the controlled waste regulations, the authority may charge for the collection of specific waste streams, including Hazardous Clinical waste.
Hypodermic needles and other hazardous healthcare wastes should never be disposed of in the domestic waste stream. Sharps bins can be obtained on prescription (FP10 prescription form) and can be returned to your doctor for disposal when full. This is the cheapest and most efficient way of disposal.
If patients are treated in their home by a community nurse or a member of the NHS profession, any waste produced as a result is considered to be the healthcare professional's waste
If the waste is non-hazardous, and as long as it is appropriately bagged and sealed, it is acceptable for the waste to be disposed of with household waste. This is usually the case with sanitary towels, nappies and incontinence pads (known collectively as sanpro waste) which are not considered to be hazardous when they originate from a healthy population. This is often referred to as Offensive Waste.
Disposal Options
If you do have Hazardous Clinical Waste (with proof of medical diagnosis) you can book a collection by calling 01206 282700.
The charge for this service is £85 per 60ltr black bag. Other Waste Collections providers are available in Colchester and may be considerably cheaper.