February 25, 2005—A Web-based resource launched by Premier, Inc., can help healthcare organizations dispose or recycle computers and electronics in an environmentally friendly way.
The site provides specific purchasing strategies, including contractual guidelines for minimal toxicity of materials, as well as vendor programs for “take-back,” leasing and upgrades.
The healthcare industry is responsible for the consumption and disposal of millions of electronic devices every year. The challenge for healthcare organizations is to dispose of outdated or used devices while staying conscious of the environmental and health threats posed by toxic components of information technology waste.
Computers, televisions, lab analyzers, EKG monitors, and other types of biomedical electronic equipment may contain hazardous materials. Of particular concern are heavy metals such as lead (used in cathode ray tube monitors and lead solder), mercury (used in the lights behind liquid crystal displays), and cadmium (used in batteries, resistors, CRTs, and plastic components.)
Currently, about 40 percent of the heavy metals in landfills, including lead, mercury and cadmium, come from electronic equipment discards, according to Premier.
Premier, Inc., is an alliance of not-for-profit hospitals and healthcare systems that helps healthcare organizations achieve high levels of clinical quality and financial performance. The web-based resource was produced by Premier’s Safety Institute with assistance and support from Health Care Without Harm and the Computer Take Back Campaign.
