P2: Health Care Material Substitution

Purchase less hazardous cleaning agents.

• Use alternatives to glutaraldehyde for disinfection
• Substitute non-halogenated compounds for halogenated
• Substitute simple alcohols and ketones for petroleum hydrocarbons (i.e., toluene or xylene)
• Use aqueous reagents wherever possible
• Use the most dilute form of hydrogen peroxide that will still be effective.

Reduce the use of PVC plastic which can be harmful to patients, the environment and public health.

• Dioxin, a carcinogen, can be formed during the manufacture and incineration of PVC products.
• DEHP, a phthalate used to soften PVC plastic, is linked to birth defects and other illnesses

Eliminate uses of latex which can sensitize patients, staff and visitors or trigger reactions in those who are already sensitized.

• Purchase non-latex (synthetic) gloves
• Sell mylar balloons instead of latex balloons

Replace single-use cafeteria and patient room serving supplies with reusable ones (utensils, plates, cups, bowls, glasses, mugs, pitchers)

• Reduces solid waste volume and disposal fees
• Reduces purchase and maintenance costs but increases dishwashing labor

Replace disposable linens, pads, diapers, gowns and basins with washable, reusable ones.

• Reduces volume of waste and disposal costs
• Decreases purchasing and maintenance labor but increases laundry labor

Replace foam "egg-carton" mattresses with decubitus-care mattresses.

• Reduces volume of waste and disposal costs
• Reduces purchasing costs and maintenance labor
• Eliminates the need for mattress pad

Use reusable, rather than disposable, medical instruments.

Evaluate the items in surgical packs and eliminate those items that are not often used.

Change to rechargeable batteries

• Reduce waste volume and disposal fees
• Staff must be trained on use of rechargeable equipment maintenance

 

continue to Health Care Recycling and Waste Exchange

Other Health Care sections:

 

return to P2 Business Sectors