Healthcare facilities may generate a variety of wastes, though due to the nature of their operations, these waste may fall into one of several common categories. Each of these wastes will require special on-site handling and off-site disposal depending on their characteristics and the applicable regulations of the USEPA or a state with an authorized hazardous waste program. In addition to state or federal hazardous waste regulations, these wastes will also be subject to the Hazardous Material Regulations (HMR) of the PHMSA/USDOT when transported or offered for transportation. In either case it is the responsibility if the generator of the waste and/or the shipper of the hazardous material to make the proper classification and comply with the applicable regulations.
Common healthcare waste are identified below:
| Laboratories | |
| Staining lines | Formalin |
| Test Kits | pH Adjusters |
| Reagents | Solvents like: Xylene & Isopropyl Alcohol |
| Ictotest/Clinitest/Acetest Tablets | |
| Facilities | |
| Solvent-Based Paint | Aerosols (spray paint, cleaners, solvents) |
| Paint Thinners & Solvents | Water Treatment Chemicals for Boiler |
| Oils (lubricant, hydraulic, cooling) | X-ray Machines |
| Lead Aprons | |
| Nursing | |
| Cleaners | EKG Leads |
| Hand Sanitizers | |
| Universal Waste | |
| Batteries | Fluorescent Lamps |
| Mercury-Containing Devices | e-Waste (in some states) |
You may also generate a waste that is not regulated by USEPA or your state under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) but may be regulated in transportation by the PHMSA/USDOT as an Infectious Substance (Hazard Division 6.2). Please read this article regarding the Exception for the Transportation of Regulated Medical Waste to ensure compliance.