Medical Waste Disposal Regulations in Pennsylvania
Medical waste disposal in Pennsylvania is regulated by Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). 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 Pennsylvania:
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dep.html
717-783-2300
Rules for Organizations & Facilities:
| Requirement | Rule |
|---|---|
| Max Holding Time | Infectious medical waste (excluding sharps) must be stored for no longer than 30 days from the date the first item is placed into the container. |
| Labeling Requirements | Containers must be clearly labeled with the biohazard symbol or the word “Biohazard”. |
| Container Standards | Medical 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 Pennsylvania DEP are authorized to transport regulated medical and chemotherapeutic waste. |
| Documentation Required | Record keeping (for at least 2 years) |