What Is Regulated Medical Waste And Who Regulates It?

Numerous names and classifications are used in the medical profession to describe various sorts of medical waste, which can be difficult when deciding how to dispose of it. One such word that doctors and other members of the medical community must be familiar with and comprehend is "regulated medical waste."


The distinction between permitted and potentially hazardous medical wastes is not always clear. That is why it is critical that not only health professionals but also housekeeping and janitorial workers, understand the distinction between trash that falls into the regulated and 'non-regulated' categories when it comes to disposal. This information keeps potentially hazardous trash out of landfills and protects not just healthcare professionals, but also the general public and the environment from harmful compounds. Understand the distinction and what extra steps must be taken to properly dispose of regulated medical waste.


Who Regulates The Medical Waste?


The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not govern medical waste and its segregation and disposal, as is commonly assumed, but rather state environmental offices or healthcare agencies such as state Departments of Natural Resources or state Waste Management Programs. For example, medical waste restrictions in Wisconsin are overseen by the Wisconsin State Department of Natural Resources. This state classifies medical waste as contagious trash.


The Arizona Solid Waste Management Program oversees medical waste. Medical waste is defined as "any solid waste generated in the diagnosis, treatment, or immunization of a human being or animal," excluding hazardous waste as described in A.R.S. §49-762.04. Other states have their definitions. To identify them, consult your state government's code of regulations or administrative code definitions. Storage regulations may also differ by state. So, what exactly constitutes regulated medical waste?


Can Regulated Medical Waste Be Disposed of In Trash?


Not! Regulated waste is not regular municipal or office trash; it must be separated from other ordinary rubbish and disposed of in compliance containers or bags. It cannot be thrown away since it has the potential to endanger everyone who comes into contact with it. Such wastes must be segregated or isolated from other forms of garbage as close to their site of origin as feasible. The packaging standards apply. For example, biomedical waste must be stored in easily recognized red bags or containers labeled or marked as 'Biomedical' or 'Biohazard waste'. 


Such waste should be stored separately from other rubbish. That compartment must also be appropriately ventilated and positioned to minimize exposure to the general public or animals, as well as locked down to prevent unauthorized entry. Containers for such trash must be strong and resistant to bursting or tearing when they are handled, stored, and eventually transported off-site for disposal. Again, consult your state's regulatory standards on the length of medical waste storage, as they vary.


The Importance of Appropriate Paperwork!


Many things in medical environments, such as a doctor's office, hospital, urgent care center, or even a tattoo or body-piercing business, may come into touch with blood, body fluids, or other infectious materials. These products most commonly include:


  • Medical sharps include Needles, Syringes, blades, medical knives, and so on.
  • Used bandages, gauze, or Band-Aids.
  • Gowns (worn by healthcare workers or patients)
  • Masks (used by healthcare workers or patients)


Keep in mind that this list isn't exhaustive. Every state will have a clear definition of what constitutes medical waste and how it will be regulated. When an item from a patient or healthcare provider comes into touch with potentially infectious sources, it is deemed regulated trash.


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