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Understanding the Do’s and Don’ts of Medical Waste Packaging

Medical waste needs to be handled and disposed with care like other hazardous wastes.

Medical waste is regulated in a similar way as other classes of hazardous waste. While there are federal guidelines to consider when packaging medical waste, you may be surprised to find that your state has laws that expand on these guidelines. It is critical to ensure that you are following all local, state, and federal regulations when packaging and labeling medical waste. As a waste generator, you are responsible for packaging and labeling your wastes properly and failure to do so will result in fines and penalties. Here are some tips to help you navigate these regulations to ensure that you avoid these penalties.

Identifying Regulated Medical Waste

Every state has specific definitions of what constitutes regulated medical waste. These definitions are similar to those included in OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, which includes these substances in their definition of regulated medical waste:

Setting Up the Proper Packaging

Proper packaging of your medical waste will entail following federal Department of Transportation regulations and any specific state or local rules as well. Your environmental management team can help you determine how to comply with these regulations. After setting up the transport box, line it with a red-bag liner to prevent the chance of liquid seepage on the box and place absorbent materials on the bottom of the bag liner if you are transporting small amounts of liquid as well. Once the bag is full, gather up the bag top and close it, tying it into a secure knot. Close the box flaps and securely tape it closed. Finally, apply your customer label and ready the box for pickup.

Understand What Cannot Be Transported in Medical Waste Packaging

If you need to dispose of the following items,  do not place them in a package for medical waste. Instead, contact your environmental management team, who can provide the proper disposal systems.

Also, never place regular trash or bodily waste that are not potentially infectious in medical waste packaging!

WE CAN HELP YOU WITH YOUR MEDICAL WASTE DISPOSAL AND TRAINING. CONTACT US TODAY!

No matter what kind of environmental issue you may have, AEG Environmental can help. We handle every situation with care, dedication, and a commitment to exemplary customer service. When you have an emergency, you can rely on us! Need training? We can handle that too! We train in a wide variety of environmental management areas so that your company can remain compliant with EPA, DOT, and OSHA. Make sure to check out our blog for the latest and greatest in the waste management world! You should also follow us on social media for updates.

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