Due to the nature of its contents and its associated risks, clinical waste is classified as dangerous goods. This means there is high regulation around how the waste is stored, transported and disposed of. This primarily applies to infectious chemically-contaminated clinical waste and cytotoxic waste. Bags storing this waste must be tested and approved in accordance with UN regulation to maintain the highest and safest quality.

Clinical waste bags must be able to safely withstand a certain amount of weight for safe carriage and transportation. Our ADR compliant bags have a corresponding UN approved weight limit to indicate maximum approved capacity of the product. This is obtained by putting forward the product for a UN packaging test. This testing assesses the integrity of the product, and if compliant, is approved.

On clinical waste bags that require this approval, the UN number will be printed across the body of the bag to easily identify ADR compliance.

As a member of the CHSA, GV Health are assessed to ensure our manufacturing process is compliant and that we are committed to the CHSA Code of Practice, guaranteeing us as a reputable and credible supplier. 

With our bags holding CHSA Manufacturer accreditation, you can have confidence that whatever is on the box, is in the box. CHSA inspectors will undergo quality assurance by performing an inspection to review and audit products that are CHSA accredited.

With sustainability at our forefront, selected products from our Polycare range are crafted with a tailored blend of virgin and recycled plastic, PE and PP. Our manufacturing process optimises the use of polymers, replacing the use of virgin polymers with recycled polymers where possible, whilst maintaining durability.

Bags made with a blend of polymers create a sustainable approach to waste management, with a robust range of options for different requirements. We aim to find a tailored solution to your needs and budget.

What is a waste stream?

A waste stream starts from the moment something is disposed of, and describes the journey and flow of waste until final disposal. Within healthcare, waste is categorised into non-clinical waste and clinical; which can also be broken down into subcategories (infectious, infectious contaminated with chemicals/pharmaceuticals, offensive and cytotoxic waste). Different waste streams require different disposal methods, some of which can be costly.

Why do we need waste streams?

Waste streams are important in managing the disposal of waste. Each waste stream has a bag coloured indicatively, simplifying waste segregation. Categorising waste into waste streams make for a more safe and cost-effective disposal journey. They are also an important factor in infection prevention, minimising the need for excessive handling of dangerous refuse.

Our purple bags are used for the disposal of cytotoxic and cytostatic contaminated waste. This includes acutely toxic, mutagenic and carcinogenic waste including chemotherapy medicines.

Cytotoxic and cytostatic waste is disposed of via incineration at high temperatures for a prolonged period of time to reduce harmful emissions.

What can go into an purple clinical waste bag?

Historically, cytotoxic waste was disposed of in yellow clinical bags with purple print. This increased the risk of improper waste segregation and cross contamination due to confusion between other yellow clinical bags. To overcome this, GV Health introduced the use of highly-distinguishable, purple waste bags for cytotoxic refuse.

Our purple bags can be used in hospital wards and isolation areas to dispose of cytotoxic and cytostatic contaminated waste, including PPE, dressings and bandages. A clear ‘No Sharps’ marking is printed onto our bags, highlighting unsuitable waste and reducing the risk of injury.

To ensure secure carriage and disposal, we offer a range of seal types across our Polycare range.

With a selection of star, gusset and pillow/flat seals, the option for different seal types allow for all waste is leak-resistant and contained.