What is the Definition of Biohazardous Waste?

Defining biohazardous waste includes any waste products that have the risk of carrying human pathogens..Biohazardous waste is present all around us — in our doctor’s and dentist’s offices, in public restrooms, and in the wastebaskets of our schools and businesses

The Definition of Biohazardous Waste

According to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, biohazardous waste is “any waste containing infectious materials or potentially infectious substances such as blood. Of special concern are sharp wastes such as needles, blades, glass pipetts, and other wastes that can cause injury during handling.”

Biohazard Symbol

Examples of Biohazardous Waste

Human blood and blood products. This includes items contaminated with blood that will release blood in a liquid or semi-liquid form when compressed.
Human body fluids. Examples include, but are not limited to, semen, vaginal secretions, amniotic fluid, saliva, and pleural fluid.
Pathological waste. Waste biopsy materials and any human tissues or body parts from autopsy, surgery, or other procedure.
Microbiological waste. Discarded live and attenuated viruses, discarded specimen cultures, and disposable culture dishes.
Sharps waste. Used needles or any sharp object (scalpels, glass slides, broken glass) that have been contaminated with potentially infectious materials.

Unlike hazardous chemical or radioactive waste, there is no one federal agency that clearly defines or regulates biohazardous waste. To prevent infection, it is recommended to apply a universal precautions approach to all blood and body fluids. This means handling all biological materials as if they contain an infectious disease.

If you are facing a blood spill, unattended death, or other trauma cleanup, know that you don’t have to face it alone. Aftermath has been an industry leader in bioremediation and trauma scene cleanup for almost 20 years and maintains the highest standards in cleaning, sanitation, and safety compliance. To learn more about Aftermath’s commitment to public safety, read this 28-point checklist.

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Sources:

http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/Biohazardous+Waste
http://www.epa.gov/enviro/html/icr/pathogens.html
https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/hospital/hazards/univprec/univ.html
http://www.aftermath.com/wp-content/uploads/28PointChecklist.pdf

https://extranet.fhcrc.org/EN/sections/ehs/hamm/chap6/section8.html

Testimonials

"Exemplary Communication, Care, Attention to detail. This team deployed quickly to a biohazard situation, provided excellent advice and counsel, performed their work with integrity, and were instrumental when helping us with the insurance claim. A+++"

Randy N. - October 11, 2022

"From my initial contact with Jeanine to the final walk through with Jason, Tristan, Marquel and Fritz Aftermath services has been tremendously upfront, kind and compassionate after the death of my sister. During such a difficult time I never would have thought that I would walk away with five new friends. I am forever grateful."

Megan M. - October 10, 2022

"Aftermath Services Manager Christopher and his Assistant Manager Trainee Gabriel took care of my tenants (who was family) apartment swiftly. It was disgusting in there. Will be going back to this company if a situation arises like this in the future. Drive home safe guys and thank you for your hard work."

John I. - October 12, 2022

"I can not thank Cecily and Fernando enough for all the hard work and dedication they exerted to resolve our family crisis. Thank you both very much. You truly care about the families that you serve and it shows. "

Joseph T. - September 19, 2022

"Lacey and her team are amazing. We never experienced anything like this they walked us through process explained everything upfront even cost and went above and beyond. They were professional, compassionate and informative from minute they showed up even on a holiday. Sorry to say this hope I never need their services again but if we did Aftermath will be our 1st call. Thank you so much."

Patti B. - September 12, 2022

"The Pasadena Aftermath team did an outstanding job. Not only are they a remarkable team, they are also exceptional individuals. Over the course of the week that they were here, we got to know and trust them. They handled this unthinkable situation with grace, compassion, and the utmost respect for the victims. Words will never be able to truly capture the appreciation we have for them. When our world felt like it was hit with a tsunami, your team threw us a life preserver and told us that we will be okay again.The world needs more “Kevins”, “Jamies”, and “Hassens”, who will help lift the burden off of strangers who are facing their darkest days."

Ashlyn B. - September 5, 2022

"Sterling and Aurelia did much more than clean the scene. They were patient, kind, and very compassionate. They took good care of the property as if it was there own. Sterling and Aurelia communicated with us every step of the way. Their presence alone did much to contribute to the healing process. On top of all that, they did a fantastic job cleaning the house. To be honest, we hated to see them leave. Our family thank them both to the highest degree!!"

Tim F. - August 22, 2022

What is the Definition of Biohazardous Waste?

The Definition of Biohazardous Waste

Examples of Biohazardous Waste

Testimonials

Related Information

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