This procedure establishes the steps required for properly preparing biohazardous waste for disposal through a contracted service. It applies to biohazardous waste/waste containers handled by either lab staff or custodial staff.
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Procedure
Custodians: Red Tubs Filled and Closed by Lab Staff
- Lab staff places red tubs in the customary area, hallway or lab.
- Inspect the tub for a completed Biohazardous Waste Certification label (must include printed name, signature, room, building, and date).
- If no label is present or the label is not completed with name, signature, room and building, do not remove the tub. Attach a note explaining why the tub was not taken away.
- If a completed label is present, move the tub to the designated dock area.
- Attach a bar code label next to the signature label.
- Stack tubs, no more than three high.
Laboratorians: Filling and Closing a Red Tub.
- Refer to the Biohazardous Waste Disposal Guide and Biohazardous Waste Guidelines Poster for the types or materials that are appropriate to be disposed of in a biohazardous waste container. Do not dispose of chemical or radioactive waste in biohazardous waste containers. Please note: the biowaste contractor autoclaves all red-bagged waste, unless it is specifically designated for incineration, e.g., animal carcasses.
- Place red liners in the tub. Liners are thin and easily torn or punctured. Double or triple-line all tubs.
- Place either a filled biohazardous waste box or sharps container into the lined tub, or place waste directly in the lined tub; do not overfill. Limit weight of tub to under 50 pounds. Make sure that liner is not punctured or torn by pipettes or other objects. At a minimum always double-line all tubs.
- When a tub is full, tie the outermost red liner with a gooseneck knot and place a lid on the tub. Refer to EHS biohazardous Waste Tub Closing Instructions.
- Complete the Biohazardous Waste Certification label (requires printed name, signature, room, building, and date).
- Remove one-half of the label backing only.
- Stick the signed and dated label on the side of the tub next to a handle so it overhangs on a container edge for easier removal later. Custodians will not remove containers without the completed Biohazardous Waste Certification label.
- Place red tubs in the customary area, hallway or lab
Orphan Containers
- Report orphan containers to EHS.
- EHS staff will investigate.