BVA launches updated guide on waste handling

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has issued a new guide to proper waste handling practices in the animal health sector.

Following the introduction of new legislation, the industry body has launched a new quick-reference poster defining the types of hazardous waste, as well as the types of containers required and the appropriate classification codes.

This will be complemented by new online information that offers new templates to download, thus helping to bring up to date guidelines that have proven popular since their original introduction in 2008.

The BVA has received support and assistance from the Environment Agency in compiling the new guide, with the organisations urging vets to ensure their practices are fully up to date.

Carl Padgett, president of the BVA, said it is vital that waste "is stored and disposed of responsibly, that it is only handled or dealt with by those authorised to do so and that appropriate records are kept of all waste that is transferred or received".

Last month, the body called for vigilance among animal health professionals following the detection of the dangerous Schmallenberg virus at four English sheep farms.