Hospital workers are at a higher risk of exposure to disease. Sharps, fluids, medication, and other waste pose safety issues if not properly discarded. Sanitation workers are susceptible to needle sticks or contact with infectious waste.
Incorrect disposal of medical waste can be dangerous. Substances can leak into our oceans and pollute our water supplies. Toxic chemicals in water harm the aquatic life and people who come in direct contact with it.
Medical waste is not merely just used needles, sharps, and swabs. Medical waste also includes pharmaceuticals. Waste in this form can be especially dangerous considering the effects. Burns, poison, as well as the environment, can be affected. Without diving into radioactive waste like the byproduct of chemotherapy treatment, the issue of risk to exposure quickly becomes a pressing societal issue.
If you are exposed to medical waste in any fashion, immediately take the proper steps to ensure your health and wellbeing.