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Requirements of Medical Waste Disposal

Many items may be considered medical waste such as one-use hospital gowns and used hypodermic needles. Because medical waste is often contaminated with bodily fluids, which may carry disease, it's important that these items be disposed of properly. States, counties and cities may have their own regulations for the disposal of medical waste, but the federal government also sets forth some requirements. In many cases, local and federal laws coincide, creating a semi-uniform list of requirements.

  1. Labeling

    • All medical waste must be clearly and appropriately labeled with the words "Biohazardous Waste" or the international biohazard symbol accompanied by the word "Biohazard." This labeling should appear on the top and sides of the medical waste container so that it is visible from all directions.

    Storage

    • Containers of medical waste should be kept in a location where they are protected from the elements. In addition, they should not provide a breeding place or food source for insects and rodents. They must also minimize the risk of exposure to the public. For this reason, some states require that storage containers have openings that allow items to be placed inside but prevent them from being retrieved.

    Transport

    • Medical waste must be separated from all other types of waste before being transported to its final destination. Medical waste should be placed inside biohazard bags or containers and securely tied shut to prevent leakage during transport. It should also be enclosed in secondary, rigid containers with tight-fitting lids, and these containers must be appropriately labeled.

    Cradle-to-Grave Tracking

    • All states, as well as the federal government, require "cradle-to-grave" tracking of medical waste, including sharps. This means that from the time a waste item is created, until the time it reaches its final destination at a waste facility and is destroyed, a log must be kept detailing everywhere the waste has been. When the waste is finally destroyed, some states require that a "destruction certificate" be issued stating the date and time that the waste was destroyed.

    Treatment

    • Medical waste may be incinerated in an approved incinerator. It may also be buried in an approved, sanitary landfill with other medical waste.

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