Stanford School of Medicine
Health & Safety Programs

Medical Waste

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> Medical Waste Inspection Checklist
> Managing Medical Waste
> Biohazardous Waste Disposal Guidelines
> Reusable Sharps Container Program

Medical waste is regulated under the California Medical Waste Management Act (1990) and can be either biohazardous waste or sharps waste. It is waste generated or produced during:

Following the cradle-to-grave framework for hazardous waste, the researcher (generator) is required to identify material as radiological, chemical, medical, or non-hazardous waste. Medical waste is contained separately from other waste at the point of origin in the producing facility. Material is NOT medical waste if it:

SHARPS are defined as "...items having acute rigid corners, edges, or protuberances capable of cutting or piercing. This includes scalpels and razor blades, all types of pointed needles (hypodermic needles, needles with attached tubing, suture needles) and syringes.

Additional Information

   
 
  • CAP Team member can conduct a site visit to prepare your lab for a medical waste inspection.
 
 
  • Health and Safety Programs Office (723-0110) is available to answer any additional questions you may have!
 

 

Last update 03/07/08 @ 13:55

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