Medical supplies and medical waste are among the many items that are moved on the roads. Just as the regulation 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 media. The disposal of medical waste is regulated at the state level, and the Ministry of Transport (DOT) also has valid regulations.
Guide to the transportation of medical supplies
Medical supplies may be temperature sensitive, making it necessary to maintain a chilled, frozen, or environmental environment during transport. To avoid damage, tools and equipment must be stored safely and securely when transported by road. Safe storage also implies that transport workers suffered during the unloading of this special cargo.
Blood, specimens, x-rays and patient files are considered supplies by some medical institutions and are subject to regulation at the state, federal, or both levels. For example, drivers must be trained, tested and qualified for blood borne pathogens and patient files, and X-rays must comply with HIPAA privacy laws. The recommendations of the Joint Commission apply to suppliers of medical equipment that must be certified to fulfill this role.
Different rules for transporting medical supplies and waste
DOT rules contain a shipper responsible for packaging hazardous substances, including regulated medical waste and infectious substances when these materials are transported outside the territory. Packing and shipping personnel must be properly trained and properly certified. Packaging guidelines include the use of rigid containers and the use of inner packaging when necessary.
In accordance with DOT rules, special rules apply to bulk and infectious packaging. Shippers should check with their government agencies to determine if different or additional rules apply. The United States Environmental Protection Agency and state governments also offer guidance on the management of public medical waste. They include waste management planning, segregation and identification of medical waste, as well as ensuring the suitability of vehicles and their compartments for transportation.
Monitoring and record keeping are part of most rules and guidelines for medical waste and medical supplies. It is important for the supplier, the medical facility, and the carrier to maintain detailed transport data and to control the process to ensure that supplies or wastes are properly distributed and sent to the treatment or disposal room in the recommended order. Transporters must have written methods for managing spills, as well as for cleaning and disinfecting vehicles. Compliance with the most restrictive provisions ensures that all parties remain safe from sanctions and other sanctions.
