What is a waste stream?

A waste stream starts from the moment something is disposed of, and describes the journey and flow of waste until final disposal. Within healthcare, waste is categorised into non-clinical waste and clinical; which can also be broken down into subcategories (infectious, infectious contaminated with chemicals/pharmaceuticals, offensive and cytotoxic waste). Different waste streams require different disposal methods, some of which can be costly.

Why do we need waste streams?

Waste streams are important in managing the disposal of waste. Each waste stream has a bag coloured indicatively, simplifying waste segregation. Categorising waste into waste streams make for a more safe and cost-effective disposal journey. They are also an important factor in infection prevention, minimising the need for excessive handling of dangerous refuse.

Our purple bags are used for the disposal of cytotoxic and cytostatic contaminated waste. This includes acutely toxic, mutagenic and carcinogenic waste including chemotherapy medicines.

Cytotoxic and cytostatic waste is disposed of via incineration at high temperatures for a prolonged period of time to reduce harmful emissions.

What can go into a purple clinical waste bag?

Historically, cytotoxic waste was disposed of in yellow clinical bags with purple print. This increased the risk of improper waste segregation and cross contamination due to confusion between other yellow clinical bags. To overcome this, GV Health introduced the use of highly-distinguishable, purple waste bags for cytotoxic refuse.

Our purple bags can be used in hospital wards and isolation areas to dispose of cytotoxic and cytostatic contaminated waste, including PPE, dressings and bandages. A clear ‘No Sharps’ marking is printed onto our bags, highlighting unsuitable waste and reducing the risk of injury.

Learn more: www.gvhealth.com

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