The University of Iowa
Environmental Health and Safety

Biohazardous Waste: Instructions for Preparing Containers for Disposal

This procedure establishes the steps required for properly preparing biohazardous waste for disposal through a contracted service. It applies to biohazardous waste/waste containers handled by either lab staff or custodial staff.

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Procedure

Custodians: Red Tubs Filled and Closed by Lab Staff

  1. Lab staff places red tubs in the customary area, hallway or lab.
  2. Tub lids should be closed and secured.
  3. Tubs should weigh less than 50 pounds.
  4. Move the tub to the designated dock area.
  5. Attach a Stericycle label to the designated spot on the exterior of the tub in the upper right hand corner near the hinge. The deignated are is corrugated and identified with the words 'Place Label Here' under the corrugated area.
  6. Stack tubs, no more than three high.

Laboratorians: Filling and Closing a Red Tub.

  1. Refer to the Biohazardous Waste Disposal Guide and Biohazardous Waste Guidelines Poster for the types or materials that are appropriate to be disposed of in a biohazardous waste container. Do not dispose of chemical or radioactive waste in biohazardous waste containers. Please note: the biowaste contractor autoclaves all red-bagged waste, unless it is specifically designated for incineration, e.g., animal carcasses.
  2. Place red liners in the tub. Liners are thin and easily torn or punctured. Double or triple-line all tubs. 
  3. Place either a filled biohazardous waste box or sharps container into the lined tub, or place waste directly in the lined tub; do not overfill. Limit weight of tub to under 50 pounds. Make sure that liner is not punctured or torn by pipettes or other objects. At a minimum always double-line all tubs.
  4. When a tub is full, tie the outermost red liner with a gooseneck knot and place a lid on the tub. Refer to EHS biohazardous Waste Tub Closing Instructions.
  5. Complete the Biohazardous Waste Certification label (requires printed name, signature, room, building, and date).
  6. Attach the completed Biohazardous Waste Certification label to the top of the liner inside the tub.
  7. Place red tubs in the customary area, hallway or lab

 

 

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