We Educate, Communicate and Advocate for Medical Waste
The mission of the Healthcare Waste Institute (HWI) is to facilitate responsible healthcare waste management from all types of generators; to be the resource network for technical and regulatory assistance; to be respected as a proactive, responsive and credible organization; and to create high value for members.
For more information on HWI, contact Anne Germain at 202-364-3724 or agermain@wasterecycling.org.
Our Mission
The mission of HWI is to facilitate responsible healthcare waste management from all stakeholders handling infectious and hazardous substances. Our primary goal is to provide transporters, disposal facilities and regulated healthcare waste vendors an association that allows members to network with other small and large companies across the country, have a powerful and organized voice for new regulations (both federal and state) and to stay on top of new industry trends.
Services and Benefits
Advocacy
National Waste & Recycling Association staff help HWI members interact with state and federal regulators and legislators regarding either company-specific or industrywide advocacy issues, instead of managing such issues alone. HWI acts as a buffer when interacting with state agencies, which is a huge benefit by not being singled out by state regulators. Working as an organized and cohesive team, HWI is a leader in addressing new regulations and problems within the healthcare waste industry. Our association helps educate policymakers about key concerns and in-the-field industry operations.
Regulatory Updates and Education
Members can receive detailed regulatory updates throughout the yearly meetings and conference calls. There are also opportunities to take educational seminars through our partnership with the National Waste and Recycling Administration.
Education
Members get educational programs that are especially critical to companies that do not have full-time employees who monitor regulations, legislation, new technology, etc.
Networking
The greatest benefit of being a member is the networking opportunities you may not receive elsewhere. Members are introduced to vendors, regulators, inspectors and, most importantly, other disposal facilities and transporters. By meeting businesses in other parts of the country and world, our members are very willing to share sales strategies, past experiences, new opportunities, or operational advantages that they have discovered throughout their years of doing business. It is hard to put a price on how valuable this is, so come to a few meetings and find out how our members could help you and vice versa!
Influence
When the industry comes together on a national scale, it’s better for all members, regardless of company size. Every company has one vote on issues, no matter how large or small. Working as an association gives us the power to help influence the healthcare waste industry for the better!
Resources
- Hazardous Waste Incinerator Backlog Factsheet
- COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions
- Guidance on 2019 Novel Coronavirus
- Guidance on Washing Reusable Containers
- EPA: Regulated Medical Waste Information
- EPA: Hazardous Waste Programs and U.S. State Environmental Agencies
- CDC: Regulated Medical Waste Information
- DEA Dear Practitioner Letter
- Subpart P Kiosk Exclusion