Waste Management

 

Pharmacies are obliged to accept back unwanted medicines from patients.

Waste Service Specification

Main link on PSNC website - click here

 Click here for an update on Waste Legislation changes (pg. 22, In Pharmacy Journal)

 

PSNC has worked with the Department of Health, the Environment Agency and others, to prepare guidance for pharmacies.

Health Technical Memorandum 07-06: Disposal of pharmaceutical waste in community pharmacies.

It is expected that this guidance will be updated during 2010 - 2011

The PSNC Contract Workbook 2009-2010 provides a useful summary, but see changes below (in frequently asked questions).

 

When medicines are handed in to a pharmacy it is important for the health and safety implications of this activity to be assessed.

Unwanted medicines card (PDF file)

The card is based on a Lloydspharmacy document; PSNC is grateful to Lloydspharmacy for allowing the modification of their document so that it may be used by all pharmacies.

Waste handling health and safety briefing for pharmacy staff

EA Hazardous Waste FAQs

 

Frequently Asked Questions - click here to access information on this service

Covers,

  • Sources
  • Storage and license regulations
  • Controlled Drugs
  • Hazardous and Non Hazardous Waste
  • Sharps

Click here to access Quick Guide from the NPCi on Waste Management

PDF Format guide can be accessed by clicking here

  • What is waste medicine?
  • Extent of the problem?
  • Causation of waste medicine?
  • Ideas to help reduce waste in community pharmacy?