Medical supplies and medical waste are among the many items transported over roadways. Just as the disposal of these items is regulated, there are guidelines and restrictions for transporting medical supplies and waste. Many medical supplies must be transported in special containers or environments. Medical waste disposal is regulated at a state level and the Department of Transportation (DOT) also has regulations in place.
Guidelines for Transporting Medical Supplies
Medical supplies can be temperature-sensitive, making it essential to maintain a refrigerated, frozen, or ambient environment during transport. To prevent damage, instruments and equipment must be stored safely and securely when being transported over the road. Safe storage also prevents transportation workers from being injured upon unloading this specialty cargo.
Blood, specimens, X-rays, and patient files are considered supplies by some healthcare facilities and are subject to regulation at a state, federal, or both levels. For example, drivers must be trained, tested, and qualified regarding blood borne pathogens and patient files and X-rays must comply with HIPAA privacy laws. Joint Commission guidelines apply to suppliers of medical equipment, who must be certified to fulfill this role.
Different Regulations for Transporting Medical Supplies and Waste
DOT regulations hold the shipper responsible for packaging hazardous materials, including regulated medical waste and infectious substances, when these materials are transported offsite. Employees involved with packaging and transportation must be properly trained and appropriately certified. Packaging guidelines include use of rigid containers and using inner packaging when appropriate.
Under DOT regulations, special rules apply to bulk and infectious substance packaging. Shippers should check with their state agencies to determine whether different or additional rules apply. The United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Council of State Governments also offer guidelines for state medical waste management. These include having a waste management plan, segregating and identifying medical waste, and ensuring that vehicles and their compartments are suitable for transport.
Monitoring and recordkeeping are part of most regulations and guidelines regarding medical waste and medical supply transport. It is important for the supplier, healthcare facility, and transporter to keep detailed records of transport and monitor the process to ensure that supplies or wastes are assigned properly and hauled to a treatment or disposal facility in the recommended manner. Transporters should have written methods regarding spill management and vehicle cleaning and disinfection. Complying with the most restrictive regulations ensures that all parties involve remain safe from penalties and other sanctions.
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