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Facilities in Michigan that generate medical waste without incinerating it on-site must follow strict containment guidelines to ensure safety and environmental compliance. Recent updates to these guidelines highlight critical changes that every generator needs to understand to stay compliant and avoid potential risks.
To help navigate these updates, check out the key requirements below.
Proper Packaging and Containment
- Medical waste must be packaged and contained to prevent any potential release. This applies both while the waste is on the premises and during transport to its final disposal site.
Category Separation and Labeling
- Medical waste must be separated into appropriate categories at the point of origin.
- Containers should be labeled with either a biohazard symbol or the words "medical waste" or "pathological waste," with lettering at least one inch high.
Prohibition on Compaction and Mixing
- Facilities must avoid compacting or mixing medical waste with other types of waste before it is decontaminated, incinerated, or disposed of.
Clear Labeling of Decontaminated Waste
- If decontaminated medical waste is mixed with other solid waste, the container must be clearly labeled to indicate its contents.
Storage Requirements
- Medical waste should be stored in a way that prevents putrefaction and ensures infectious agents do not come into contact with the air or individuals.
- For outdoor storage, medical waste must be kept in a secure area or locked container weighing more than 500 pounds, inaccessible to unauthorized individuals or vermin.
Storage Time Limits
- Medical waste must not be stored on-site for more than 90 days unless otherwise specified.
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Sharps Disposal Update (Effective July 24, 2024): Under Public Act 105, sharps contained in designated sharps containers may now be stored until the container is no more than ¾ full. However, storage cannot exceed 18 months from the date the first sharp is deposited.
These regulations ensure that medical waste is managed responsibly, safeguarding public health and the environment. Compliance with these measures is essential for facilities handling medical waste in Michigan.
Source: Superior Medical Waste Disposal is one of TPA's Affiliate Partners, providing medical waste removal, document shredding, compliance assistance, mandatory training and more. TPA receive discounts on services and free contract reviews. Contact Gerald Belanger at gerald@superiorwastedisposal.com or (734) 656-8843.
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