Biohazard Waste
Definition: Wastes contaminated with potentially infectious agents or animal carcasses and other tissues. Examples include:
- Human tissues, blood, blood products other body fluids
- Wastes from contact with patients/subjects
- Laboratory cultures/wastes contaminated with infectious agents
- Live vaccines
- Syringes, hypodermic needles, scalpel blades and other sharps
- Animal carcasses and tissues
- Contaminated bedding
- Other contaminated items
| Packaging Guidelines |
|
| If Discarding: |
Then: |
| Autoclavable or chemically treatable wastes |
- Using autoclave manufacturer's procedure, disinfect the autoclave.
- Periodically test using recommended monitoring program.
|
| Human blood, tissues, other bodily fluids and medical wastes |
- Place in leak-proof and puncture-proof package; e.g., Plastic bag in cardboard etc. (Weight not to exceed 80 lb.)
- Attach biohazard label, identify contents, generator, date and special hazard if any.
- Freeze or refrigerate not more than three days.
|
| Sharps |
- Place needles and syringes intact in a leak-proof and puncture-resistant container. This will prevent aerosol generation by clipping needles.
- Close and secure opening of container with tape if necessary.
- Label with "Biohazard Tag."
|
| Animal carcass/tissues and contaminated bedding |
- Place in leak-proof package (see above).
- Label appropriately as above.
- Freeze or refrigerate not more than three days.
|
| Other biohazardous wastes |
Package in accordance with appropriate category listed above or call EEM for info. |
| Disposal Information |
|
| Autoclavable and chemically treated wastes |
- Treat according to manufacturer's instructions or accepted lab procedures.
- After treatment, waste should be handled as general waste (see general waste).
|
| Medical wastes, sharps and contaminated bedding, other biohazardous materials |
Call EEM at 978-934-2543 to arrange for pickup and incineration. |