How to Recycle Lead Radiology Aprons

Lead aprons protect patient organs and glands during exposure to medical radiation such as X-Rays. Under OSHA regulations, each organization must regularly inspect their lead aprons for cracks and tears to prevent lead exposure. Like any hazardous material, disposal of lead aprons can be complicated and time consuming. Fortunately, companies such as MetalQuest and Maguire & Strickland Refining now give clients the option to recycle lead aprons instead of discarding them. The benefits for hospitals include helping the environment and a recycling offset credit available for sale or trade depending on state regulations.

Instructions

• 1

  Count the number of aprons you want to recycle. Some companies will charge by the barrel while others charge by individual apron. As of 2010, prices range from $50.00 for one to three aprons or $900.00 for a 55 gallon drum that lets you fill the unit to capacity. The amount you want to recycle will determine the size of the shipping unit sent by the company, so an accurate count is important.

• 2

  Order a recycling unit. If you only have a few aprons, you can either order a shipping box from the company, which includes a return mailing sticker, or pack them yourself and request pickup service. For orders shipping more than a few aprons, the company will deliver a storage unit such as a 55 gallon drum that is specially designed to safely transport lead materials.

• 3

  Pack your aprons. Insert your lead aprons into a plastic bag if you are using a cardboard box for shipping, this will protect the package handlers from lead exposure. For drum containers, use protective gloves to fold the aprons and fill the drum to capacity. Store in a safe place until pickup arrives.

• 4

  Send your aprons. Send cardboard boxes containing lead aprons through a carrier service that specializes in hazardous material transportation. For drum shipping, the company will come to your location once you call, and retrieve the containers with protective transportation.

• 5

  Store your Recycling offset credit. For larger hospitals, this will probably be handled by the office of purchasing or government affairs. If you operate a smaller practice, discuss this credit with your tax attorney.