Different Types of Medical Waste And How To Dispose Them

There are numerous types of medical waste generated in healthcare facilities like hospitals and laboratories. The four main types of medical waste are infectious, radioactive, general, and hazardous waste.

These waste materials are collected and disposed of differently. Therefore, health facilities and those handling the waste should know these differences and how to handle each type of waste.

1. General waste

Health facilities generate non-contaminated and non-hazardous waste, such as office waste. This type of waste is called general waste and is disposed of in general-purpose trash bins.

2. Infectious waste

Any waste material that has the potential to harm humans or animals is considered infectious. This type of waste contains infected surgical waste, blood, blood cultures, swabs, stocks, and blood-soaked bandages. It should be disposed of in bags inside red containers.

3. Radioactive waste

Health facilitates and practitioners use radiation technology to treat diseases like cancer. As a result, radioactive waste is generated from radioactive treatments and equipment that use radiation. Radioactive waste should be disposed of in shielded containers that are properly marked.

4. Hazardous waste

This type of waste is not infectious but can harm humans. It includes sharps, chemicals, and hazardous medications. Hazardous waste is disposed of in black containers.

The Bottom Line

Medical waste is usually composed of body fluids, blood, medical equipment, and infectious materials used in the health sector. Therefore, healthcare providers, practitioners, and waste management personnel should know how to handle each type of medical waste.