The need for a simple solution to sanitary waste

We know more now than we ever did about the negative effects of climate change and people are realising the importance of protecting and preserving our environment. For many of us, this starts in the home, and thinking about where our waste is going is commonplace nowadays. We are used to separating the recycling from the food waste, and the garden waste from the waste that will go to landfill.

Do we, though, have as much thought for where our waste goes when we’re out in public? Sanitary bins are not just useful things that happen to be right next to the toilet — in the UK they are required by law in all female washrooms, because certain personal items need to be disposed of under controlled UK legislation.

There is a duty for businesses of all sizes and types of industry to follow these legislations for health, safety and for the benefit of their employees, guests and customers. The legislation remains applicable even in the event of there being only one female present at the location.

Sanitary waste however remains a sensitive topic to discuss, and so it is important that bins are as discreet as possible. If you’ve ever come across one, you will know that it’s unpleasant to discover an overflowing sanitary bin. Waste can be foul smelling and unsightly. To keep washrooms clean and welcoming for everybody, installing sanitary bins with an effective lid to hide waste and lock in odours is imperative. Encouraging people to throw away waste and not flush it is also important to reduce the chances of toilet blockages.

So, how can we reduce the chances of a visitor finding an overflowing sanitary bin in their cubicle? We believe that one solution is making it easier and more efficient for service companies and individuals to install the bins, and to empty and replace waste bags. Time is money, of course!

Vectair’s new femcare™ simple sanitary disposal system is made up of a reduced number of components, but with maximum safety features for the user and the cleaner. The simple design means it’s easy to install and service. This reduces the time a person needs to build or change the unit, saving on vital costs. Invizi-Touch® technology on the modesty flap protects against bacterial build up from harmful germs.  Invizi-Touch® also features on the inside and the outside of the Vectair femcare™ liners — so anyone who touches the liner is protected.

Click here to learn more about femcare™ simple

Sanitary disposal is governed by the following legislation:

• The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulation 1992, Regulation 21 –All companies are required to provide a suitable means for the disposal of sanitary dressings in ladies washrooms.
• Regulation 21 of the Workplace (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulation 1992 –In the case of water closets used by women, suitable means should be provided for the disposal of sanitary dressings.
• The Water Industries Act 1991 –Before this law was passed, it was a popular trait to see sanitary waste flushed down the toilet. This is because disposal units were more commonly found in the shared washroom area. No sanitary dressings should be flushed that could have the potential to cause blockages within the sewer or drain or cause major plumbing problems. 
• The Duty of Care Regulations 1991 & The Environmental Protection Act 1990, Section 34 –Every piece of sanitary waste is managed to the point of disposal. It is a necessity that waste is carried by a licensed carrier with a valid carrier’s certificate and a complete audit trail of documentation must be available for viewing at all times. Failure to comply with these laws can lead to a large fine or imprisonment.