NEMG introduces recycling process for PPE

On April 20, NEMG put its personal protective equipment (PPE) recycling process into effect. Partnering with its medical-surgical distributors on the outpatient (McKesson) and inpatient (Medline) sides, the process was implemented at all NEMG locations serving as direct patient encounter (DPE) sites. “Although NEMG remains well positioned from a personal protective equipment perspective, it is imperative we do our best to conserve and recycle, if possible, the products we use,” said Rick Coppola, director, Regional Practice Operations.

The products in scope include the following:

• Surgical masks (Levels 1, 2 and 3)
• N95 respirators
• Face shields

Only NEMG employee/clinician PPE is included in this recycling process. Any PPE donned by patients or visitors will not be collected and recycled.

Here is a brief summary of the process:

• McKesson distributes boxes, liners (bags) and biohazard stickers to each DPE location, where collection containers are strategically placed.
• NEMG staff and clinicians place used PPE in the boxes at the product’s “end of life” in conjunction with our Ambulatory PPE guidelines/policy.
• Once filled, liners are tied and boxes are closed and sealed. Boxes are labeled for courier pick-up.
• PPE is couriered to the acute-care facilities, where they are picked up by Medline for recycling.

A PPE recycling point person was assigned at each DPE location to set up collection containers and monitor volume. The NEMG PPE Task Force works with Corporate Supply Chain to develop reoccurring courier pick-ups.