Regulated medical waste should be handled in which of the following ways?

According to federal and state healthcare waste management standards, regulated medical waste must always be separated from general waste streams at the point of generation. Proper segregation ensures compliance with OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, EPA’s Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), and The Joint Commission’s Environment of Care standards. Containers for regulated waste must be red, leak-resistant, and labeled with the universal biohazard symbol.

Correct Answer (D. separated from other types of waste): CHFM compliance and Environment of Care standards require that infectious or hazardous medical waste be physically separated to prevent cross-contamination and maintain compliance with infection control protocols.

A (labeled with specific content): While containers must be labeled, they do not list specific contents; only the biohazard designation is required.

B (refrigerated at 40°F): Refrigeration applies only in specific storage conditions, not universally required for all regulated medical waste.

C (incinerated within 10 days): Time requirements vary by jurisdiction; incineration within 10 days is not a universal federal mandate.