For many businesses, it is the fear of penalties and consequences for improper Pharmaceutical Waste that guide compliance. Governmental agencies who regulate and enforce the policies regarding Pharmaceutical Waste are the DEA and EPA. They create policies that address the societal, environmental, and legal burdens that fall to businesses and facilities that must dispose of their Pharmaceutical Waste. The ultimate outcome for all Pharmaceutical Waste is for it to be considered non-retrievable. Improper Pharmaceutical Waste disposal leads to financial penalties and consequences that impact the environment, create avenues for drug diversion and addiction, and most often not considered, is the impact to a facilities reputation.
Financial Penalties and Consequences
Non-Compliance fines hit hardest.
Fines and penalties come not only from the DEA and EPA but state agencies as well.
EPA fines for non-compliance in Pharmaceutical Waste disposal can reach up to $25,000 per day.
The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) can also issue civil penalties of up to $70,117 per day per violation.
If a facility breaks transportation policy for Pharmaceutical Waste, they can be fined up to $15,000 by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
Environment Impact
Complex organic molecules, like Pharmaceutical Waste, will not break down if disposed of down the drain.
Once in the water supply, these molecules will leech into the soil and local drinking supply.
The purifying process at waste water treatment facilities do not remove these chemicals.
Drug Abuse Prevention
Drugs that are leftover and not properly disposed of present hazards that include accidental poisonings and deliberate abuse.
The CDC estimates roughly 500,000 people died from an opioid overdose (1999-2019).
Reducing the opportunities and access to Pharmaceutical Waste in turn reduces the economic burden for costs of treatment, criminal charges, and strained employee productivity.
Reputation or Social Capital Damage
In addition to weighty fines, the agencies tasked with enforcing Pharmaceutical Waste compliance often disclose the names of companies and individuals charged with improper disposal.
This negative publicity will leave a prejudice for current and future customers.
Flushing medications Down the Drain is Non-Compliant with Federal Regulations
Flushing Pharmaceutical Waste down the toilet is bad. It is important that everyone who is associated with Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal needs to have a solid understanding of the Federal Regulations mandated by the DEA and EPA. Failure to comply can be costly to both your pocketbook and to your drinking water supply.
Cardinal Business LLC Products Are Part of Your Compliance Plan
If your business or facility creates Pharmaceutical Waste, it is crucial your company has a plan in place to ensure proper compliance. With more stringent regulations, environmental impacts and higher fines, now is the time to allow Cardinal Business LLC to take the fear out of compliance. Call us today or connect with one of our experts to learn how we can help you maintain compliance for your Pharmaceutical Waste needs.
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