As most already know, biohazardous waste is the most difficult and expensive waste with which to deal. Types of biohazardous waste that a clinical lab generates include:
- blood, blood products, and items soaked with blood;
- human tissues or body parts;
- body fluids;
- sharps used on humans or human parts; and
- waste containing potential disease-causing agents.
Disposal of biohazardous waste must meet OSHA and local standards, which are beyond the scope of the course. Also, some labs autoclave their biohazardous waste, while others do not. Each laboratory must follow all guidelines and requirements.
As a first step to reducing biohazardous waste, it is essential not to dispose of non-biohazardous items in biohazardous waste containers. By doing this, the amount of biohazardous waste that needs special handling will be reduced. The next page will provide a discussion in more detail.
