2. Sharps containers
1. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates sharps containers, ensuring they meet standards for puncture resistance, leak-proofing, and durability to contain sharps safely. Additionally, OSHA mandates that SHARPS be disposed of immediately in containers meeting the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (2012) to reduce exposure risks to workers handling SHARPS. Disposing SHARPS at the point of origin minimizes the risk of accidental needlesticks, cuts, or punctures, which could expose personnel or CLIENTS to infectious materials. 2. Under its Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (2012), OSHA mandates that containers be replaced routinely and not allowed to overfill. Sealing SHARPS containers when they reach the designated fill line is essential to prevent overfilling, which increases the risk of needlestick injuries or accidental exposure to infectious materials. FDA guidelines also recommend that containers be filled no more than three-quarters full if the fill line is not indicated to maintain safety (CDHR 2021). 3. If a SHARPS container is placed within a permanently mounted holder that conceals its labeling, displaying the biohazard symbol and labeling on the holder itself ensures that personnel and others can easily identify it as a biohazard, preventing accidental or improper handling. 4. Under OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (2012), all reusable containers for SHARPS must be cleaned and decontaminated after each use. Reusable outer containers must be rigid and made of materials that are easy to clean and decontaminate. Constructing these containers from smooth, nonporous materials prevents the absorption of BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS or other contaminants.
3. Storage
1. The EPA, under RCRA, enforces time limits on the storage of hazardous waste to mitigate risks of environmental contamination under 40 CFR § 262.34 (1980b). While the EPA sets guidelines for hazardous waste storage, some states may have specific time limits for biohazardous and regulated waste. Limiting the storage of regulated waste to 30 days reduces the risk of pathogen proliferation and cross-contamination, which can occur as biological waste decomposes. BIOHAZARDOUS WASTE can release harmful pathogens, bacteria, or viruses if stored for extended periods, potentially contaminating the surrounding environment and posing a risk to public health. 2. OSHA sets standards for safe workplace practices and containment of BIOHAZARDOUS WASTE, including restricted access requirements and sanitation guidelines. These requirements align with OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (2012), which mandates that potentially infectious waste be stored and handled in a manner that protects employees from exposure risks. Designating restricted indoor storage areas with limited access minimizes accidental exposure to BIOHAZARDOUS
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