Biohazard and Chemical Waste

Compliance with biohazard and chemical waste management regulations continues to be one of the most significant issues in any laboratory. Chemical waste, either stock or reagent, should never be poured down laboratory drains. Instead, it should be collected into appropriate and clearly identified ( HAZARDOUS WASTE ) containers prior to removal by waste management services. Chemicals and reaction products should never be mixed. Not only is the practice dangerous but also creates additional costs in terms of dealing with the waste. 

Used Petri plates, plastic containers and pipette tips should be stored in approved autoclave bags ( BIOHAZARD ) for autoclaving along with cultures prior to disposal. Any item capable of causing puncture wounds, such as hypodermic syringes, glass or plastic pipettes, or razor blades, should be placed in covered contained and labeled SHARPS.  

Broken containers with small volumes of active microbial cultures should be covered with paper towels soaked in lab disinfectant. If broken glass is present, collect using a lab brush and dust pan (not fingers) and transfer to disposal bags. Larger volumes of liquid culture can be mopped up after disinfecting. It is recommended that the mop and bucket be soaked in disinfectant for several hours. 

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