*TS: Clarifications and Expectations with the Joint Commission’s Director of engineering: George Mills: More on Managing Hazardous Materials and Waste: A further examination into EC.02.02.01 Guest Columnist: Kathy Tolomeo, CHEM, CHSP, engineer, The Joint Commission (PDF/QV) [REF: C&E, EOC, SFT] EC News, January 2016, Vol 19, #1, Pg 9 JCe1601_B4

The article continues the explication of EC.02.02.01 and the management of hazardous materials (HazMat) that was begun in last month’s Clarifications and Expectations column. That Part 1 delved into EPS 1-8. This Part 2 wrap up addresses the following remaining EP:

•Re: EP 9_This EP addresses hazardous gases and vapors that are not particularly common in our hospitals. However, if you have them you must also have proper monitoring of levels and engineering controls to protect people.
•Re: EP 11_This EP requires an organization to have appropriate permits, licenses, etc, for the hazardous materials they manage.  It is said to be one of the most frequently cited. One reason may be that hospitals are regarded as hazardous waste generators, as defined by the DOT and as such may require more licenses and permits than expected for certain hazardous wastes.
•Re: EP 12_This EP requires proper labeling of HazMat based largely on OSHA’s new Hazard Communication Standard effective back in June of last year.
•Re: EP 18_This new EP (effective 1/1/15) requires periodic monitoring of those who work with potential exposure to radiation.
•Re: EP 19_This is another new EP (effective 1/1/15) and it requires proper storage and prompt disposal of trash.

The article concludes with a [Pearl]  ‘Hazardous Waste Storage Inspection Checklist’ at the bottom of page 11.
Tip: Consider incorporating the checklist into your EOC safety rounds and/or use it for a focused mock tracer of your handling of HazMat.
See also: OSHA PPE Hazard Assessment Certification Form
See also: C&E: Hazardous Material Management (EC.02.02.01) – Part 1/2
Note: The Physicial Ennvironment Portal will also review this standard in detail in its Oct/Nov 2016 issuance.