ABSTRACT
Healthcare organizations use or generate a wide variety of hazardous substances, including disinfectants, sterilizing agents, solvents, chemotherapeutic drugs, compressed gases, and hazardous wastes. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Joint Commission (see Table 7.1) require organizations to identify hazardous materials requiring special handling, to minimize risks during use, and to ensure the use of proper disposal methods. Healthcare organizations must implement written programs for proper management and disposal of all hazardous materials. OSHA requires a written hazard communication program (29 CFR 1910.1200) to educate workers about hazardous materials and train them on their use in the workplace. Accredited organizations must work to integrate hazardous management plans with the requirements established by OSHA, Department of Transportation (DOT), Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), and EPA. Other important suggestions include:
• Maintain proper inventory and control of all materials used, stored, or generated. • Provide adequate space and equipment for handling and storing hazardous materials. • Monitor and document correct disposal of hazardous gases and vapors. • Develop work area and emergency response procedures to address specific hazards. • Use protective equipment when responding to hazardous materials spills or releases. • Maintain hazardous waste manifests, permits, and licenses. • Ensure the proper labeling of all hazardous materials and wastes.
