What should be done with expired emergency equipment?

Expired emergency equipment must be removed from service and properly disposed of because using expired equipment can compromise safety and effectiveness in emergencies. Emergency equipment is specifically designed to perform critical functions during urgent situations, and once it reaches its expiration date, it may not work as intended. This could lead to potentially dangerous outcomes in life-threatening scenarios where timely and reliable responses are crucial.

Proper disposal ensures that expired equipment does not inadvertently get used, and it also allows for the safe handling of materials that may pose health or environmental risks. Following established disposal protocols helps maintain compliance with safety regulations and standards within the organization.

In contrast, continuing to use expired equipment can place both users and those they assist at significant risk, while storing it for reference or passing it to another department can lead to unintended consequences, including unintentional usage when it is no longer reliable.