Medical Waste Disposal Regulations in Washington DC
Medical waste disposal in Washington DC is regulated by District of Columbia Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE). 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 Washington DC:
Rules for Organizations & Facilities:
| Requirement | Rule |
|---|---|
| Max Holding Time | While specific maximum holding times for medical waste in Washington, D.C., are not explicitly defined in the available regulations, waste management is essential to prevent health hazards. Facilities should store medical waste in a manner that minimizes the risk of exposure and promptly arrange for its treatment or disposal. |
| Labeling Requirements | The words "Regulated Medical Waste," "Biohazard," or "Infectious Waste" in large, legible print. Containers must also feature the universal biohazard symbol. |
| Container Standards | Containers used for medical waste must meet the following criteria: leak-proof, moisture-resistant, durable, and puncture-resistant. |
| Who Can Haul Waste | Only licensed and permitted transporters are authorized to haul medical waste in Washington, D.C. |
| Documentation Required | Waste manifests and record keeping |
Other Resources:
- DC DOEE Hazardous Waste Regulations
- DC DOEE Application for Hazardous Waste Generator
- District of Columbia OSHA contact number – (202) 698-5708