How to Properly Package Medical Waste

If you own, work for, or handle waste for a facility that generates Regulated Medical Waste (RMW) or red bag waste, then you already understand that it has to be handled, packaged, and disposed of properly, per federal guidelines. Just when you thought that your waste was packaged properly, you learn that your state has laws that differ from federal regulations – did you know that states have the authority to add additional rules to many federal regulations? It’s important to follow local (city), state, and federal requirements when you package medical waste. Even if you think you’re handling everything correctly, it’s always good to brush up on the latest laws and procedures, as the waste industry continues to change on a consistent basis, and as more and more people take on environmental causes, the regulations will continue to change as well. As a “generator” of RMW, you are accountable for the proper classification and packaging of any waste your facility produces, or are subject to penalties and fines for any non-compliance.

Obeying OSHA

Each state has a specific definition of RMW, which is usually closely similar to what is included in the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. According to OSHA, RMW consists of:

• Sharps (that are properly packaged)
• Liquid or semi-liquid blood or Other Potentially Infectious Materials (OPIM)
• Contaminated items that would release blood or OPIM in a liquid or semi-liquid state, if compressed
• Items that are caked with dried blood or OPIM and are capable of releasing these materials during handling
• Pathological and microbiological wastes containing blood or OPIM

Things that should NOT be included in your RMW containers or packaging are:

• Regular trash
• Anything containing urine, feces or any other non-OPIM body fluids
• Hazardous or chemical waste
• Loose sharps
• Any container or cylinder for compressed gas or gasses
• Radiographic or amalgam waste
• Medication
• Uncontained liquids

Follow Every Step

Here are 6 simple steps for ensuring that you package medical waste correctly:

1. Choose your RMW container and red bags

Depending on the type of RMW your facility is producing, you may have to utilize a few different types of containers. For sharps bins, corrugated boxes, and plastic garbage containers you are required to have the properly-sized red bag and sharps bins must be puncture-resistant. Be sure to seal any loose flaps, or securely engage the bottom flaps or lids of auto-lock containers. For large or bulk reusable containers (greater than 119 gallons),the red bag must meet and be marked per current ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) requirements, limited to a maximum of 46 gallons and 22 lbs.

2. Line your RMW container with the red bag

Use a red biohazard bag to line the inside of the container, making sure that there’s an overlap at the top of the container so the bag can be gathered properly. Be sure to comply with any state-specific requirements for thickness of the red bags, etc., and do not to exceed the weight limits of the container.

3. Dispose of ONLY medical waste in the red bag

You must package medical waste differently depending on the type of waste, so you have to know and understand what is considered medical waste in your state (see general list above). You can place disposable sharps containers in a red bag for collection if necessary. Mark any pathological waste, or trace chemotherapy waste, for incineration, packaging it separately from other red bag waste that is not destined for incineration. Fill the container appropriately, leaving space at the top.

4. Gather, twist, and tie the red bag

While wearing gloves, gather the edges of the red bag from the sides of the RMW container. Twist the top of the bag to seal its contents. Secure the seal with a strong, hand-tied single knot to prevent any leakage in case it’s jostled during transport. You can also use a zip tie, or tape, to secure the knot. Ensure that the bag is completely closed.

5. Seal your RMW container

For corrugated boxes, seal the top of the box with the 2-inch wide, clear packing tape. For auto-locking containers, engage the top flaps. For reusable containers, secure the lid, and engage all closures and locking mechanisms.

6. Check the markings on each RMW container

Federal markings are shown on the red bags or containers, but you may also need additional labeling if required by your state or local regulations. If you’re using a medical waste disposal company, apply the given bar code label to the container for transport.

Leave it to the Professionals

If you’re looking for a medical waste disposal partner in the greater Birmingham or Huntsville, AL areas, contact us at SecureMed. We can handle your RMW securely and efficiently, maintaining compliance with all state and federal laws. Give us a call today!