Toxic Substances Control Act
The Toxic Substances Control Act creates a regulatory framework for chemicals to evaluate, assess, mitigate, and control risk from manufacturing to processing to alternate use. This includes: lead hazards from paint, dust, and soil; polychlorinated biphenyls regulations and how to handle waste; and asbestos regulations for use, removal, and disposal. Hospitals and other healthcare institutions are clearly covered by this law.
Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act
The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act and its amendments gives the EPA the authority to enforce rules and regulations concerning the registration, distribution, sale, and use of pesticides. This also includes antimicrobials which are used extensively on surfaces in healthcare settings. The CDC recommends strongly that healthcare institutions use EPA-registered products for disinfecting surfaces or sterilizing or disinfecting medical equipment and medical facilities.
Federal Hazardous Materials Transportation Law
This law requires institutions to meet specifications for hazard communications, packaging requirements, training in the handling of biohazardous wastes, etc.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission under the authority of the Atomic Energy Act has authority in the areas of nuclear medicine, radiation therapy, and research. They also make determinations of how radioactive material as well as of radioactive wastes will be handled.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has numerous regulations and standards established for prevention of disease and injuries in workers. Hospitals and other healthcare institutions must comply.
