How to Dispose of X-Rays

Laws require that medical facilities keep X-rays on file for seven years. After that, it is important for hospitals, doctor and dental offices to dispose of X-rays properly. According to the Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act of 1996, it is illegal to simply throw X-rays in the trash due to privacy issues. Films must be destroyed. It is just as important for your own privacy that X-rays in your possession be disposed of properly. X-rays should be destroyed to protect not only your confidential health information, but the environment as well.

Things You'll Need

• X-rays film
• Sturdy boxes
• Scale
• Packing tape

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Pick a recycling company that will provide you with a "certification of destruction" proving your film has been properly destroyed according to federal laws. Choose one that specializes in handling, recycling and disposing of X-ray film. Some companies will pick up your films for a fee; others have drop-off services. If you don’t have a local recycling company, several companies allow you to ship your film to their facilities; you pay for the shipping costs.

• 2

  Gather X-rays or film to be disposed and place into a sturdy box. Weigh the box to ensure it complies with postal regulations for shipping. Some recycling companies will also have weight limits for accepted materials.

• 3

  Enclose a letter in the box that contains all of your contact information as well as a request for a written certification that the X-rays have been destroyed correctly. Tape the box carefully to ensure it will not reopen during shipping and handling.

• 4

  Contact the recycling company to make the arrangements for shipping, pickup or dropoff. Inquire about any special forms or instructions for mailing before shipping your box.

• 5

  Request a return receipt or signature-confirmation service from the post office when mailing your boxes to ensure proof of delivery.