Medical Waste Disposal Regulations in Oregon
Medical waste disposal in Oregon is regulated by Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). This guide provides Organizations & Facilities with up-to-date information on how to stay compliant with storage, labeling, pickup, and transportation requirements.
Regulating Agencies in Oregon:
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ)
https://www.oregon.gov/deq/pages/index.aspx
503-229-5696
Rules for Organizations & Facilities:
| Requirement | Rule |
|---|---|
| Max Holding Time | The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) provides additional guidelines, requiring that infectious waste be treated or disposed of within 7 days if stored above 32°F (0°C), or within 30 days if stored at or below 32°F (0°C). |
| Labeling Requirements | Containers holding infectious waste must be clearly labeled with the biohazard symbol or the word “Biohazard”. |
| Container Standards | Infectious waste must be placed in rigid, leak-proof, and puncture-resistant containers. Sharps (e.g., needles, scalpel blades) must be disposed of in FDA-approved sharps containers. |
| Who Can Haul Waste | Only licensed and permitted transporters registered with the Oregon DEQ are authorized to transport infectious waste. |
| Documentation Required | Record keeping (for at least 3 years) |