Using reusable containers for hospital waste: is there an infection risk?

Abstract

Reusable waste containers (RWC) are used to transport sharp and non-sharp healthcare risk waste in many countries and are becoming increasingly common in South Africa. Initially with their introduction there may be a perception of risk of pathogen or disease transmission. This paper assessed the international literature on RWC infection risk and found neglible to nil risk of pathogen or disease transfer. The literature confirms that disinfection and microbiological monitoring and validation of RWC is not indicated, and that washing with hot water and detergent, using visual criteria for cleanliness and due diligence on contractor selection, enable reusable containers to be safely used.