§ 627.34 - Disposal.

Inactivation is the first step in the disposal of etiologic agents or materials that are potentially contaminated with them. All contaminated or potentially contaminated materials must be effectively disinfected or sterilized by an approved procedure discussed in § 627.33. After decontamination, reusable items, such as clothing or glassware, may be washed with other uncontaminated or decontaminated items.

(a) Combustible items. Combustible disposable items should be bagged and incinerated in an appropriate approved incinerator or otherwise disposed of in accordance with State and local regulations.

(b) Noncombustible disposable items. Items will be packaged as stated in § 626.34(e) and disposed of by a licensed waste hauler.

(c) Equipment. Equipment that cannot be autoclaved will be decontaminated by gaseous sterilization or with a suitable liquid disinfectant. Such equipment will be certified as decontaminated by the safety officer.

(d) Waste. Materials generated, such as solvents, acids, chemical carcinogens, radioactive isotopes, medical waste, or dead animals must be decontaminated, packaged, and then disposed of in accordance with EPA, NRC, local, State, and Federal regulations.

(e) Mixed waste. When two or more hazardous materials are mixed together, the mixture will be decontaminated and disposed of in accordance with EPA, NRC, State, and Federal regulations for the mixture, or for the most hazardous material.

(f) Packaging. Solid waste will be placed in cans, sturdy bags, or boxes. Rigid, puncture-resistant, sealable containers will be used for packaging “sharps.” When wet materials are packaged for disposal, the materials will be placed in a leak-proof container. Heavy waste will be placed in rigid containers ensuring that the burst strength of the container is not exceeded.

(g) Labeling. A method of verifying that all items prepared for disposal have been decontaminated will be established for etiologic agent wastes. Mixed waste will be labeled as appropriate to indicate the hazards that must be addressed after decontamination.

(h) Recordkeeping. A manifest will be initiated and maintained, where required, to record the disposition and transfer of waste. Applicable Federal, State, and local ordnances will be followed.