How to Dispose of CDC Bio Hazard Materials

Containers of biohazardous materials should be labeled with the internation symbol for biohazards.

Biohazardous waste may include medical waste such as body fluids, culture dishes and discarded vaccines, as well as contaminated items and pathological and microbiological wastes. These materials, produced in places such as hospitals, doctor's offices and laboratories, can cause serious injury, illnesses and even death if not handled correctly. The Centers for Disease Control provides guidelines for the safe disposal of biohazardous materials to avoid dangerous consequences. (See reference 1 and 2)

Instructions

1. Disinfect, sterilize, inactivate or burn the biohazardous material depending on its type and how contagious it is. For instance, the CDC recommends human and blood products are either steam-sterilized, incinerated or chemically disinfected before disposing them. (See reference 2)

2. Separate infectious biohazardous materials from noninfectious wastes. Place infectious waste in leak-proof and puncture-resistant containers labeled with the international symbol of biological hazards. (See reference 1 and 2)

3. Contain biohazardous materials held in plastic bags in rigid or semirigid containers. Keep these containers covered during transportation. (See reference 1 and 2)

4. Disinfect containers and carts that are used regularly for the transport of biohazardous materials. Destroy single-use containers of biohazardous materials.

5. Store biohazardous materials for as short a period as possible. Pack the hazardous materials so as not to allow access to rodents, vermin and other animals.

6. Contact your state or local government and request a list of approved disposal options. Procedures and regulations vary by state and county. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends treated liquids and ground solids, such as small animal carcasses and pathological wastes, are thrown into the sewer system while infectious wastes must be first treated and then buried in landfills. (See reference 2)

Tips & Warnings

• Workers who handle biohazardous materials must be trained in infectious waste management techniques and understand the company's waste management plan.

• Use reputable waste handler contractors to ensure federal hazardous materials guidelines are followed because you could be held accountable for their negligent acts.

References

• ORCBS: Hazardous Waste
• CDC: Guidelines for Protecting the Safety and Health of Health Care Workers

Resources

• CDC: Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories
• Princeton: Laboratory Procedures and Equipment