Regulated Medical Waste Box: Assembly and Disposal

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to properly assemble a Stericycle regulated medical waste box and dispose of it, as demonstrated in the UofL Environmental Health and Safety video. Understanding the correct procedure is crucial for maintaining safety and compliance when handling medical waste.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Materials

Before beginning the assembly, collect all necessary materials:

• Stericycle regulated medical waste box
• Tape (if not already included)
• Labels for waste identification
• Safety gloves

Tip: Ensure that you are wearing safety gloves throughout the process to protect against any potential exposure to hazardous materials.

Step 2: Assemble the Medical Waste Box

Follow these steps to assemble the box:

1. Unfold the Box

   • Open the box by folding it along the pre-scored lines.

2. Secure the Bottom Flaps

   • Push the bottom flaps inward.
   • Use tape to secure the flaps, ensuring that the base is sturdy.

3. Check for Stability

   • Ensure the box stands upright without wobbling.

Common Pitfall: Avoid over-taping the box, as this may hinder the disposal process later.

Step 3: Label the Box

Proper labeling is essential for safe disposal:

1. Attach Labels

   • Use the provided labels to identify the contents of the box.
   • Ensure labels are visible and securely attached.

2. Fill Out Required Information

   • Include your name, department, and date on the label.

Practical Tip: Double-check that all information is clear and accurate to avoid delays in disposal.

Step 4: Fill the Medical Waste Box

When filling the box, adhere to the following guidelines:

• Only dispose of regulated medical waste.
• Do not exceed the fill line indicated on the box.
• Keep the box closed when not in use to prevent spillage.

Real-World Application: Familiarize yourself with the types of waste classified as regulated medical waste to ensure compliance.

Step 5: Prepare for Disposal

Once the box is filled, prepare it for disposal:

1. Seal the Box

   • Close the top flaps securely.
   • Use tape to seal the box completely.

2. Schedule a Pickup

   • Contact your department’s waste disposal coordinator to arrange for pickup.
   • Follow any specific departmental procedures for scheduling.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we covered how to assemble a Stericycle regulated medical waste box, label it correctly, fill it with waste, and prepare it for disposal. Ensuring that you follow these steps carefully helps maintain safety standards and regulatory compliance. For next steps, familiarize yourself with your facility's medical waste policies and keep an eye on your waste disposal schedules.