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 clinical 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 infectious refuse.

Infectious, non-chemically contaminated clinical waste can undergo chemical treatment and maceration, before being disposed of in landfill, reducing disposal costs. Any clinical infectious waste that is contaminated with medicines or chemicals will require disposal via incineration. Effective waste segregation will help ensure the most cost-effective disposal.

What can go into an yellow clinical waste bag?

Our yellow bags can be used in hospital wards and isolation areas to dispose of clinical waste contaminated with infectious bodily fluids, including chemical/pharmaceutically contaminated waste. This includes dressings, bandages, syringe bodies, laboratory specimens, tissues, aprons and gloves. 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.