Trash Tech

Job Summary: The EVS Trash Technician plays a vital role in maintaining a safe, clean, and sanitary environment for patients, staff, and visitors at Lemontree Healthcare. This position is responsible for the proper collection, handling, and disposal of waste materials, including hazardous, biohazardous, and general waste, in accordance with hospital protocols, regulatory guidelines, and infection control procedures. The Trash Technician will work closely with the Environmental Services team to ensure that trash disposal areas are well-maintained and comply with health and safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

Waste Collection & Disposal:

• Collect and properly dispose of all types of waste from designated areas within the healthcare facility, including patient rooms, common areas, offices, and restrooms.
• Ensure waste is properly segregated into categories (e.g., general, biohazard, recyclable, pharmaceutical) to prevent contamination and comply with safety and regulatory standards.
• Transport waste to designated disposal or collection areas, including trash compactor or external waste containers.

Hazardous & Biohazardous Waste Handling:

• Follow proper procedures for handling and disposing of hazardous and biohazardous waste materials, including sharps, medical waste, and other infectious materials, in compliance with OSHA and hospital infection control policies.
• Ensure proper labeling and containment of hazardous waste to prevent contamination and ensure safety.

Cleaning & Sanitization:

• Regularly clean and sanitize waste collection areas, including trash bins, carts, and containers, to maintain a safe and hygienic environment.
• Maintain cleanliness in hallways, utility rooms, and loading docks where waste is handled and stored.
• Ensure that waste bins and containers are properly lined with appropriate liners and replaced as needed.

Safety & Compliance:

• Adhere to all hospital safety procedures, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and aprons when handling waste materials.
• Follow infection control protocols to minimize the spread of pathogens and ensure safe handling of waste materials.
• Report any unsafe conditions, equipment malfunctions, or accidents to the EVS Supervisor immediately.

Documentation & Reporting:

• Keep accurate records of waste removal, including the type and amount of waste disposed of, as required by hospital policies and regulatory agencies.
• Assist in tracking waste removal schedules and ensure timely collection to avoid overflow or contamination.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with other EVS team members and departments to ensure proper waste removal procedures are followed and that all waste is handled efficiently.
• Communicate any issues, concerns, or potential hazards related to waste disposal to the EVS Supervisor or relevant staff.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience:
  • Previous experience in a healthcare or janitorial environment is a plus but not required.
  • Familiarity with basic waste disposal, sanitation practices, and safety protocols is preferred.
• Skills & Abilities:
  • Ability to safely lift and move heavy trash bags and waste containers.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow cleaning and disposal protocols.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Good communication skills for coordinating with supervisors and other team members.
  • Basic understanding of infection control and waste disposal procedures in a healthcare setting.
• Certifications:
  • OSHA or safety training certifications are a plus.
  • Training in handling hazardous or biohazardous waste is preferred but will be provided as needed.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time position with shifts that may include weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Physical demands include the ability to lift heavy objects, stand for long periods, and work in various environmental conditions.
• Potential exposure to hazardous materials, so adherence to safety guidelines and PPE requirements is essential.
• The work environment may include areas with strong odors, noise, and varying temperatures.

Lemontree Healthcare policy is to provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants and employees regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, veteran status, status as a special disabled veteran, or any other protected criteria as established by federal, state, or local laws. Employment decisions at Lemontree Healthcare are based solely upon relevant criteria, including an individual’s capabilities, qualifications, training, experience, and suitability.