Common Recyclable healThcaRe plasTics

sterilisation wrap

Commonly referred to as blue wrap, sterilisation wrap is a sterile material that protects surgical instruments and other items from contamination. If collected before surgery, it is a clean material. It is made from polypropylene (PP) and may be recycled with other #5 materials, or can be collected and baled separately to increase its value.

irrigation bottles

Irrigation bottles are commonly used in operating rooms. These bottles can be drained and collected for recycling. They are often made from polypropylene (PP), which can be recycled with other #5 materials.

Some saline bottles are made from high density polyethylene (HDPE), which may be recycled with other #2 materials. Check with the manufacturer if you are not sure of the material.

basins, pitchers, trays

Rigid coloured and opaque plastic containers such as water pitchers and patient care basins and trays are typically made from polypropylene (PP) and may be recycled with #5 materials.

Tyvek

Tyvek is a common material utilised in sterile barrier packaging, typically as part of a chevron peel pouch or a lid on a rigid tray. Tyvek is made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and may be recycled with other #2 materials.