Introduction
Introduction
The practice of dentistry involves the generation of both hazardous and regulated medical waste( formerly known as infectious waste). Some wastewater discharges may also be of concern. Dental office personnel should be aware of the types of waste produced in the dental office and how to properly handle and dispose of these wastes. These guidelines describe the types of waste produced, along with disposal options and any applicable regulations.
Pennsylvania Dental Association( PDA) recommends both the reduction and recycling of wastes as preferred waste management practices. Proper disposal is appropriate when recycling is unavailable or impractical.
The quantity and types of waste generated by a dental office will vary depending upon the type of dental practice and procedures performed. Waste produced in the dental office is referred to generally as“ solid waste.” The handling, storage, transportation, recycling and disposal of all solid waste is regulated at the federal, state and local levels.
At the federal level, waste is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency( EPA). The EPA delegates the administration and enforcement of most aspects of the federal solid waste program to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection( DEP), which has developed its own regulations. In addition, waste water discharges to public sewer systems are often regulated at the local level through municipal ordinances. The most stringent regulations must be followed regardless of whether they are federal, state or local regulations.
A clean place is a happy space.
PDA Waste Management Guidelines 3