Regulations set out by the waste regulator, Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), state producers of waste are responsible for the management of such waste, and processes for segregating waste should be monitored and evaluated on a regular basis. Audits are an effective tool in assessing waste for the purpose of duty of care, monitoring and minimisation schemes.
SEPA guidance requires dental practices to complete waste audits, known as Pre Acceptance Audit (PAA) [1,2]. The waste contractor for NHSScotland (TRADEBE) is subject to SEPA requirements and may not collect healthcare waste without a PAA in place.
Contact your Health Board Waste Management Officer for advice on what information is required for inclusion for a PAA or the SEPA Guidance for the Storage and Treatment of healthcare waste [2] provides a full list of criteria and template examples
Complete a waste audit every 2 years, or as required, by NHS Board