Biohazard Waste Management
POLICY CHANGE:
Effective Date of Policy Change: June 1, 2008As of June 1, 2008, all UNC laboratories will be required to collect biohazard waste in outer containers that are red in color.
This requirement is in addition to the current policy requirement that biohazard waste containers:
- Must be durable,
- Leak-proof,
- Have a lid, and
- Be clearly labeled,
This policy also puts a maximum limit on the size of a biohazard waste container at 15-gallons (57-L). Laboratory inspectors will not cite a variance with this policy until it has been in effect for one year.
Please note that this policy change does not impact the requirements for sharps collection containers. To review contaminated sharps collection requirements on campus click here.
A review of biohazard waste containers available through Fishersci is available here. However, EHS has located economical alternatives to help ease the cost associated with replacing waste containers to meet the new standard (available here).
UNC Biohazard Waste Management General Links
- Biohazard Waste Disposal Chart for UNC-CH research laboratories
- UNC's Biohazard Waste Policy
- Chemical Treatment of Liquid Microbiological Waste
- Red Biowaste Containers
- EHS review of Fishersci biohazard waste containers
- Autoclave Use
- NC Medical Waste Management Rules
- For Disposal of Biohazard Waste Mixed with Chemicals or Radioactive Materials, contact EHS
- Burn-Up Bin Poster