What is biohazardous waste?

Biohazardous waste refers to waste that poses a risk to health or the environment primarily due to its infectious nature. This type of waste includes materials such as blood, bodily fluids, and contaminated sharps that can transmit diseases or infections. Proper handling and disposal of biohazardous waste are critical to prevent exposure to pathogens and ensure safety for healthcare workers, patients, and the community.

Recyclable or reusable waste, on the other hand, constitutes materials that can be processed and used again, posing less risk than biohazardous waste. Regular trash typically includes non-hazardous items that do not require special handling. Waste generated from food services is not inherently biohazardous; it may include general food waste that does not carry a health risk. Therefore, the identification of biohazardous waste is essential for infection control and safety practices in healthcare settings.