What should be done with waste that contains high levels of heavy metals?

Waste that contains high levels of heavy metals must be collected separately to prevent contamination and ensure safe disposal. Heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic, pose significant environmental and health risks due to their toxicity and persistence in the environment. When these wastes are not separated, they can leach into other waste streams, posing dangers to public health and the environment.

Collecting this type of waste separately allows for specialized handling, treatment, and disposal methods that can mitigate risks. Authorities often have regulations that mandate the separate collection of hazardous waste to ensure that it is managed in accordance with environmental safety standards.

This careful management is crucial not only for compliance with regulations but also for the protection of ecosystems and public health, highlighting the importance of proper waste segregation in health care waste management practices.