Sustainable Handling of OR Waste - a Difficult Issue with Great Potential

Abstract

Surgical interventions often result in large amounts of waste. Contaminated waste must not be separated in recyclable fractions but must directly be burned for thermal recycling. Clinical waste is classified according to the potential dangers in accordance with the European Waste List (EWL). Unfortunately the waste number does not contain information about recyclable material. Only about 5% of clinical waste is hazardous waste resulting from contact with notifiable diseases in accordance with the definition of §6, German Law on Infection Protection. This waste must be burned or be further sterilised. By using separate collection of packaging material without contamination with body secretions, up to 50% of waste from operating rooms can be disposed of via the German "Dual System" free of charge. Nearly 30% of packaging waste will undergo material recycling. The recycling of contaminated high-class single use surgical instruments (SUSI) is not allowed unless they pass through a disinfection procedure that is certified by the responsible authorities. Two examples will be presented. Other separated waste fractions (for example paper, pasteboard, cardboard packaging or light packaging like PET etc.) can be sold directly to specialised recycling companies. Conclusion: Responsible handling of clinical waste from operating theatres preserves our environment, can save money and motivates staff members who care for the future of our planet earth. When sustainable waste management is introduced, all staff members must be introduced from the start. Doctors must function as role models.