Summary

As part of a continuing assessment of hazardous waste issues, disposal practices for infectious wastes was reviewed at hospitals, laboratories, and veterinary establishments.

Based on the information obtained during the review, the proposed definition of infectious waste could result in government over-regulation. As proposed, much waste will be treated as hazardous even though it does not pose a significant threat as hazardous to those who might accidently come into contact with it. In addition, existing disposal practices for infectious wastes appear adequate and compliance with proposed changes in the new regulation will be unnecessarily costly and burdensome for health care facilities.