How to properly dispose of PPE

As we use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks and latex gloves to avoid spreading COVID-19, the amount of debris littering our surroundings has increased. Discarded disposable masks and gloves have been spotted around LW property, near trash cans (but not in them) and in parking areas. While experts say the risk of catching coronavirus from used masks and gloves is minimal, the litter is cause for concern.

Casually discarded masks often end up in storm drains, from where they are swept into oceans. Many sources recommend cutting the ear loops and face-covering parts of masks before discarding them. All disposable PPE should be deposited into a trash bin with a liner that can be sealed. This can be your kitchen trash or a community waste can. For those on the go and concerned about safety, it’s recommended to keep a disposable, sealable plastic bag for such items; the sealed PPE bag can then be disposed later.

For households with a suspected or diagnosed COVID-19 case, it is recommended that affected PPE and tissues be placed into a sealed plastic or paper bag before being deposited with general waste. As always, anyone touching the waste should wash theirhandsimmediatelyafterward.

PPE is never recyclable.