What defines biohazardous waste?

Biohazardous waste is defined as materials that are contaminated with blood, body fluids, or other potentially infectious materials. This type of waste poses a risk to human health and the environment, as it can carry pathogens that are capable of causing disease. The correct identification of biohazardous waste is critical in healthcare settings to ensure proper handling, treatment, and disposal.

Recycling items for further use does not qualify as biohazardous waste since it typically involves clean materials that have not been contaminated. Non-contaminated medical supplies also fall outside the definition, as they do not pose any infectious risk. Additionally, general trash from a healthcare facility is not specifically related to biological hazards; it usually consists of non-contaminated materials that can be disposed of through regular waste management without the need for special handling or precautions. Thus, the emphasis on blood and body fluid contamination makes the definition clear and crucial for safety protocols in managing infectious waste.