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Biohazard & Chemical Waste Management

Types of Biohazard Waste:

  • Sharps: These include needles, scalpels, and broken glass contaminated with biological materials. Proper disposal involves using biohazard-marked sharps containers. 
  • Liquid Biohazard Waste:  Bulk biological liquids like culture media and clinical specimen fluids should be collected in aspiration vacuum flasks charged with disinfectant.
  • Solid Biohazard Waste: Items like contaminated gloves, pipettes, soiled kim wipes and petri dishes fall into this category.
  • Tissue Biohazard Waste: Biological tissues, organs, and body parts require specific handling and disposal procedures.

 

Collection,  Storage and usage practices:

  • Use biohazard-labeled containers designed to prevent accidental release.
  • Sharps containers must be puncture-proof and leak-proof.
  • Keep sharps containers free of visible contamination and store them upright.
  • Liquid waste containers should be charged with disinfectant before use.
  • Solid Biohazard waste containers should have lids and remain closed when not in use.

 

Treatment and Disposal:

  • Permanently close sharps containers when 3/4 full or when items don’t freely fall in.
  • Place full, sealed containers in designated biohazard waste pickup points.
  • Your external vendors handle treatment and disposal of sharps containers

 

Regulations and Compliance:

  • OSHA  and state regulations (e.g., 105 CMR 480.000 in Massachusetts) mandate  proper labeling, storage, and disposal of biohazardous waste.
  • Familiarize yourself with local guidelines and follow autoclave safety protocols
  • Generator paperwork must be kept for 3 years in an accessible location in the case of an inspection.


Remember, biohazard waste management protects everyone involved and ensures a safer environment. If  you have specific questions related to your waste handling practices,  consult your institution’s biosafety office or environmental health and  safety team.

 Best Practices in Chemical Waste Management:

  • Organizations can limit chemical waste by: 
    • Reducing consumption through efficient processes.
    • Properly storing chemicals to prevent spills.
    • Recycling or reusing chemicals where possible.
    • Disposing of waste according to regulations.
    • Using UN rated storage containers is best practice.

 

 Regulations and Compliance: 

  • Federal and state governments have strict regulations for chemical waste management.
  • Conscientious handling of chemical waste is crucial to protect the environment.


Hazardous Waste Basics: 

  • Hazardous waste is dangerous to health or the environment.
  • The EPA regulates hazardous waste from generation to disposal.
  • Recycling, treatment, and proper disposal are key components.


In summary, responsible chemical waste management ensures safety, sustainability, and a healthier future for all.  If  you have specific questions related to your waste handling practices,  consult your institution’s chemical hygiene officer or environmental health and safety team.


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