The regulation of hazardous waste in France and Europe

Infectious Risk Healthcare Waste (DASRI) represents a specific category of waste that requires special treatment. This waste, produced during medical care, is hazardous to human health and the environment. The regulations around DASRI are therefore strict, both in France and in Europe, in order to ensure secure and compliant management. In this article, we will explore the main regulations governing the management of DASRI.

What are DASRI?

DASRI encompasses all waste arising from healthcare activities that present an infectious or chemical risk. They include:

- Needles, syringes, soiled dressings

- Sharp or cutting instruments

- Potentially contaminated blood and biological products.

This waste can come from medical facilities (hospitals, laboratories, medical offices) but also from home care.

The regulation of DASRI in France

In France, the management of DASRI is governed by a strict legislative framework, primarily dictated by the Environmental Code and the Public Health Code. These texts aim to protect people and the environment by imposing standards for sorting, collecting, storing, and processing DASRI.

1. Sorting and collecting DASRI

The producers of DASRI, whether they are medical establishments or individuals, are required to sort this waste and package it in specific containers, such as yellow boxes for sharp objects.

DASRI must be separated from conventional waste, in closed, watertight, and puncture-resistant containers. These packages must also be identified and labeled to allow for effective traceability.

2. Storage of DASRI

Medical establishments must comply with strict rules regarding the temporary storage of DASRI before it is collected by specialized providers. This storage must not exceed three days at room temperature, or seven days if the waste is kept at a temperature below 5°C.

3. Transport and disposal of DASRI

Only authorized carriers can take charge of DASRI. They are responsible for transporting it to treatment centers, where the waste is either incinerated or disinfected by autoclave, a heat-based decontamination process.

4. Traceability of DASRI

Traceability is a key element in the management of DASRI. Each batch of waste must be identifiable and tracked from its production to its final treatment, in order to ensure compliance with regulations and avoid any risk of contamination.

The regulation of DASRI in Europe

At the European level, waste management, including DASRI, is governed by directives aimed at harmonizing practices among member countries and ensuring a high level of protection for public health and the environment.

1. Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC)

The European directive on waste establishes general principles for managing hazardous waste, including DASRI. It imposes rules on separate collection, traceability, and the safe treatment of hazardous waste.

2. Transposition of European directives

Each member state of the European Union, including France, is required to transpose these directives into its national law. This explains why French legislation on DASRI follows European recommendations while adapting certain rules to local specifics.

3. Standards and certifications

Healthcare facilities and companies specialized in managing DASRI must also comply with certain European standards, such as EN 14885 standards related to disinfection methods for medical instruments. These standards ensure that DASRI is treated and disposed of safely and in compliance.

Challenges and opportunities related to the management of DASRI

The management of DASRI presents several challenges, particularly regarding:

- Health risk: poor treatment of DASRI can lead to contamination and infections.

- Traceability: ensuring effective traceability to prevent environmental and legal risks.

- Compliance: regulations evolve, and healthcare establishments must constantly adapt to new legal requirements.

However, these challenges also represent opportunities for waste management companies and medical establishments, which can take advantage of innovations in the digitization of procedures, particularly for traceability, waste tracking, and compliance with standards.

Conclusion: digitization, a lever for DASRI compliance

The management of DASRI is a crucial issue for public and environmental safety. Between legal obligations, traceability, and secure treatment, regulation in France and Europe strictly oversees every stage of the lifecycle of this waste.

To facilitate the management and compliance of procedures, solutions like Vesuv can prove essential. Through the digitization of protocols, you can not only simplify the traceability of DASRI but also automate control and tracking processes in full compliance with current regulations. Don’t wait any longer to discover how Vesuv can help you optimize the management of your DASRI. 🌍💼

For more information, visit vesuv.fr!