With some confusion as to what's involved with the efficient disposal of clinical waste in orange bags, here are some of the most frequently asked questions, answered by Initial Medical, experts in waste management:

Q1: What waste should go in orange bags?

A: Orange 'clinical and infectious waste' is any waste arising from healthcare activities that could pose a risk to public health or the environment, unless properly disposed of. This includes contaminated swabs, gloves, paper towels, dressings, aprons and masks.

Q2: Do you have to put your postcode, contract number and signature on orange bags?

A: All waste bags and containers should be marked with your business name and postcode. All hazardous waste requires a Hazardous Waste Consignment Note – HWCN – which includes information on your practice and its premises code, details of the waste contents and quantity, as well as its packaging. There is no need to sign the bags themselves, as your signature will be required by your service technician when they collect the waste bags for onward disposal.

Q3: How is waste in orange bags disposed of?

A: Orange waste may be treated to render it safe prior to disposal. Alternatively, it can be incinerated.

For more advice on best practice protocols in waste management and segregation, contact Initial Medical today. Visit www.initial.co.uk/medical or telephone 0870 850 4045.