BIOHAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL PROCEDURES

GENERAL PRINCIPLES

All laboratories are responsible for the separation, packaging, and treatment of their waste prior to its removal and disposal. All biohazardous waste must be packaged, contained and stored so as to prevent the release of waste at any time at the site of production through the process of disposal.

Hazardous chemical waste that also contains viable biohazardous agents must undergo biohazardous decontamination prior to disposal unless such procedures are contraindicated (i.e., might result in exposure to the chemical agent or dangerous chemical reaction). In such instances, strict disposal procedures must be established as approved by the Biohazard Committee and Chemical Hygiene Committees. Biohazardous waste that is also radioactive must be handled in strict compliance with the Radiation Safety Office.

Autoclaving is the preferred method of decontamination of biohazardous agents. Chemical disinfectants serve the purpose in many instances but should not be considered under most instances.