Table 3.3

Table 3.3. Recommendations for Management of Untreated Infectious Waste [2]

Waste Category	Examples	Packaging	Disposal	Special Considerations
Anatomic Waste	Tissues (Placenta delivered in hospitals) Organs Body parts	Secure impervious containers	*Incineration, cremation	Some cultures/religions may require burial in a cemetery.
Microbiology waste	Diagnostic specimens Laboratory cultures	Autoclavable bags Or Plastic waste holding bags for general waste	Decontamination by autoclave for landfill Or Incineration	Bags may vary in strength. Secure containment double bagging may be required.
Blood/body fluid waste	Phlebotomy bottles Suction containers Drainage collection units	Secure impervious containers	Sanitary sewer if permitted by local regulatory authorities or incineration	Bags may vary in strength. Secure containment double bagging may be required.
Other Waste	Gloves Sponges Dressings Soiled surgical drapes	Impervious waste holding bags	Landfill
Sharps	Needles Scalpel blades Blood syringes Broken glass	Puncture-resistant sharps containers	Incineration Landfill	Glass containers and empty plastic bottles are not safe. The container must be sturdy and the top must be able to be secured.
Isolation waste	Viral haemorrhagic fevers	Government-approved secure containers	Incineration	Contact local public health authority.

* Must meet national engineering standards for hospital incinerators