Medical Waste Disposal Regulations in West Virginia
Medical waste disposal in West Virginia is regulated by West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR). 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 West Virginia:
West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR)
https://dhhr.wv.gov/Pages/default.aspx
(304) 558-0684
West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
https://dep.wv.gov/Pages/default.aspx
304-826-0440
Rules for Organizations & Facilities:
| Requirement | Rule |
|---|---|
| Max Holding Time | Small quantity generators may transport their infectious medical waste to a permitted facility or arrange for transport by an employee, provided the waste is delivered within 45 days of its generation. |
| Labeling Requirements | Labels must include the generator's name, address, and business telephone numbers, and the date the waste was packaged. |
| Container Standards | Use leak-proof plastic bags for containment. Red bags are for general infectious medical waste, and orange bags with autoclave tape are for waste to be steam treated. |
| Who Can Haul Waste | Only individuals or entities with a permit issued by the Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) may transport infectious medical waste. |
| Documentation Required | Record keeping, annual reporting, and manifest forms |
Other Resources:
- West Virginia Code on Medical Waste
- WV Office of Environmental Health Services – Applications and Forms
- OSHA in West Virginia – (304) 347-5937