Disposal of Film
 |
The light sensitive properties of silver compounds are the key to most photographic processes, and the basis of most of the waste produced by them. Like the compounds of many other heavy metals, they are highly toxic, and classified as special wastes by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The ever increasing demand for environmental concerns have further stressed the requirements for proper recycling, disposal of film and the waste produced by them. Even the paper jackets and inserts can be cross shredded and turned into a fine pulp for re-use. Due to the sensitivity of patient records, disposal of film must be handled according to regulations set forth by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
Under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), you share in the responsibility for patient records, including disposal of film, even after they leave your facility. Besides assurances of continued patient confidentiality, you should be able to determine that these films are destroyed in an environmentally sound manner. Your selection of an outside vendor is a matter of trust and serious obligation. An obligation A Walsh Imaging, certified in hauling and disposal, takes seriously as we strive to meet or exceed government standards.
HOW IT WORKS
● Our processor technician picks up your obsolete or used x-ray film in either supplied containers or your containers provided they are in accordance with A Walsh Imaging's established compliance protocols.
● Once packed, the containers of disposable x-ray films are noted on a service ticket and is signed by both our employee and a representative of your facility.
● Containers are then transported in a van or truck to A Walsh Imaging's facility.
● Your discarded films are co-mingled (for added confidentiality) with thousands of other images in carefully monitored lots in our own secure containment area. Each lot is then properly stored, sealed and transported to an end refiner.
● A Walsh Imaging's refining partners follow a detailed procedure for disposal of film. This involves shredding and recycling the plastic base and recycling the silver emulsion for industrial or commercial re-use. |
|
|
