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Imaging / Radiology

With years of experience in the field, we understand the complexities of hazardous waste disposal. We are equipped to handle a wide range of hazardous materials, including chemicals, solvents, biomedical waste, and more. Our team consists of trained professionals who adhere to stringent safety protocols and industry best practices.

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Imaging / Radiology Waste Removal

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  • Imaging / Radiology

    Imaging / Radiology Waste Disposal

    MET is a fully licensed, certified, and insured medical waste, treatment, and disposal company. We offer our waste disposal services across California, Nevada, and Arizona.

    Medical waste services for imaging and radiology facilities are specialized to help these facilities manage their medical waste, and to ensure that it is properly handled and disposed of in a safe and environmentally friendly manner. These services include the collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal of medical waste generated. Medical waste generated by these facilities can include x-ray fixer, x-ray developer, x-ray film, lead aprons and lead dental foil. The EPA regularly conducts inspections at facilities that use x-rays, usually every 18 months to 2 years to check for the proper disposal of any x-ray waste. Contact MET for more information about these services.

    Radiological Waste: 
    • Waste that has been contaminated with radioactive materials, such as used imaging equipment, lead aprons, or contaminated materials from radioactive isotope use (in nuclear medicine or other radiological procedures).

    Waste Segregation and Handling in Radiology
    • Radiological Waste: For waste that contains radioactive materials, special protocols must be followed. Materials contaminated with radioactive substances (e.g., lead aprons, radiographic films, or disposable materials exposed to radioactive isotopes) must be labeled and segregated from other waste types. Depending on the level of contamination, radioactive waste may require specialized disposal through licensed facilities that handle radiological waste. Radiation safety protocols must be followed for the handling, storage, and transportation of radioactive waste.

    Storage of Medical Waste in Radiology
    The storage of medical waste in a radiology department must adhere to the following guidelines:
    • Designated Storage Areas: Medical waste, including radioactive waste, must be stored in a designated, secure area that is separate from clinical or patient areas to prevent exposure. This storage area should be clearly marked with appropriate signage, such as “Medical Waste” or “Radioactive Waste” (for radiology-related materials).
    • Proper Containers: All waste should be stored in containers that are puncture-resistant, leak-proof, and properly labeled to reflect the waste type. For radioactive materials, containers must be shielded appropriately to reduce radiation exposure, and appropriate radiation warnings must be posted.
    • Temperature and Environmental Controls: Some radiology wastes, especially those containing pharmaceuticals, chemicals, or radioactive materials, may require temperature-controlled storage or other environmental conditions to prevent degradation or leakage.
    • Limited Storage Duration: Medical waste, especially infectious or pharmaceutical waste, should not be stored for extended periods. Generally, waste should be removed from storage and disposed of within 7 days of generation. Radioactive waste might have specific guidelines regarding storage time, depending on the level of contamination.

    Transportation of Medical Waste
    The transportation of medical waste, including radioactive materials and hazardous chemicals, must comply with the following:
    • Licensed Waste Haulers: Medical waste must be transported by licensed medical waste haulers who are authorized by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) or the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), depending on the waste type. These haulers must have the proper certifications to transport medical and hazardous waste.
    • Manifest System: Hospitals and other healthcare facilities must use a manifest system (tracking form) to ensure the waste is properly documented and tracked from the point of generation (e.g., the radiology department) to the disposal facility.
    • Specialized Containers: Radioactive waste must be transported in shielded containers to ensure that radiation exposure is minimized during transit. The waste must also be clearly marked with the appropriate radiation symbols and hazardous material labels.
    • Transportation Records: Facilities must maintain records of all waste transportation, including the types of waste, quantities, dates of pickup, and destination. These records must be kept for at least three years.

    Radiation Safety and Protection
    For radiology departments handling radioactive materials, radiation safety protocols must be rigorously followed:
    • Radiation Protection: Personnel must be trained in radiation safety practices to minimize exposure. This includes using shielding, personal protective equipment (PPE), and radiation dosimeters to monitor exposure levels.
    • Radioactive Waste Disposal: Radioactive waste must be segregated and disposed of in compliance with federal and state regulations governing the management of radioactive materials. The waste may require special packaging and labeling to ensure safe handling during transport and disposal.

Compliance Certified