Biological Waste Basics
Hazardous Materials
Proper Handling and Treatments
Biological waste is any material that contains or is contaminated with bacteria, fungi, viruses, prion, parasites, etc., that may cause harm to people, animals or plants if released into the environment.
Biological Waste Categories
Category 1 waste includes any human-derived materials (such as blood, body fluids, cell lines or tissues) as well as any other materials known or suspected to be infectious. This type of waste must be treated through autoclaving or chemical disinfection.
Category 2 waste, often referred to as ?look-alike waste,? is non-infectious. It may include animal tissue, fluids, cell cultures or other biological materials that do not meet the criteria for Category 1. Unlike Category 1, Category 2 waste does not require treatment.
Packaging Bio Waste for Pickup
- Identify the waste category and treat Category 1 waste as required.
- Allow autoclaved waste to cool or gels to solidify before packaging.
- Place bags or sharps containers into an EHS-provided black bag and cardboard box; tape shut when full.
- Submit a pickup request in EHSA.
- Attach a green “Approved” sticker to the sealed box and write the request number on it (stickers are for bio waste only).
- An EHS technician will collect the waste and leave replacement boxes and bags. Lab personnel must assemble the new boxes.
- Ensure red bags and sharps containers are autoclave safe.
- Do not overfill boxes, flaps should lay flat when closed. Do not exceed 30 pounds
Contact
Environmental Health and Safety
hazwaste@purdue.edu
765-494-0121