RFID devices are not widely used in the UK clinical waste sector. Their potential is considerable, to identify and track individual waste containers, and provide a data framework for billing that permits detailed itemised invoices that can be invaluable to Trusts wishing to apply unit recharging to individual departments and sections.

A report from Guang’anmen Hospital (GAMH) in China tells of a much improves medical waste disposal control system that used the Ekahau RTLS system. Rather than limiting RFID use to container tracking, this extends the functionality by tracking staff also, to make sure that the staff resource is be utilised efficiently. Most impressively, bulk waste containers are locked automatically and remain so unless and until an approved member of staff carrying an appropriate RFID device is in proximity.

Combined with a staff identity and access card system, this ensures that all of those who might need access to waste carts can use these properly. Waste infringements and breaches in waste segregation or more general health and safety issues can be traced back to individuals to ensure appropriate training is properly targeted, with options for accurate internal unit recharging facilitated by individualised billing records.

This is surely the future direction for waste efficient management. Sounds good to me.