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Medical Waste Disposal

What is Regulated Medical Waste (RMW)?

Regulated Medical Waste is generally defined as any solid waste that is generated in the diagnosis, treatment or immunization of human beings or animals, and constitutes any waste, which may contain blood, body fluids or any other potentially infectious material such as:

  • Syringes, blades, disposable instruments, slides, pipettes, cultures, blood tubes, etc (all must be placed in sharps containers)
  • Dressing materials, band aids, cotton balls, surgical sponges and gauze
  • Disposable speculums, catheters, tubing, specimen containers
  • Diagnostic test kits
  • Disposable PPE
  • Drapes, surface coverings
  • Laboratory specimens, tissues, body parts
  • Any disposable item which may have had contact with infectious materials

How to Properly Package Regulated Medical Waste for Transportation and Disposal

All 6.2 Regulated Medical Waste must be packed into two plastic bags and then be placed into a transportation container that meets the DOT regulations. No uncontained liquids greater than 20cc permitted.

photo of a gloved hand depositing a red Regulated Medical Waste bag with balloon style knot into an approved receptacle
Properly secured bag with “balloon style” knot

The last bag must be tied with a balloon style knot.

photo showing regulated medical waste disposal bag with a balloon style knot
Example of a balloon style knot

Lids must be placed securely onto the container without obstructions or foreign material protruding from the container.

example of improper biohazard bin use: shows a red biohazard bin with a waste bag protruding under the lid
Improperly Secured Waste Container
A properly secured biohazard disposal bin. There is no protruding foreign bodies from the lid, and the lid is tightly secured.
Properly Secured Waste Container

Contact for Medical Waste Disposal Services

Larson-Miller Medical Waste Disposal Service

www.larsonmiller.com

(208) 326-7272 or (801) 738-6545