MCF Environmental Services have been serving medical clinics, laboratories, education institutions and local businesses for more than 30 years, offering specialist waste collection and disposal services for hazardous and non-hazardous waste streams.
In the state of Washington, healthcare waste disposal regulations are found under Washington’s Department of Ecology. However, it should also be noted that it is the county level government agencies that primarily regulate medical waste. In this state, medical waste is defined as biomedical and/or infectious waste.
Know definitions and where to find the rules
Knowing where to find the rules for waste management processes for all waste streams in Washington State is important not only for the health and safety of humans, but the environment.
The Department of Ecology provides specific definitions for “dangerous” waste. Washington’s waste generators should be aware that the state’s definitions for dangerous wastes includes more than the wastes listed under “hazardous waste” definitions of the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
It is the responsibility of waste generators to determine what type of waste they produce, which may or may not be hazardous, and to ensure compliant and safe handling on-site and through disposal processes.
The state of Washington also maintains a list of state-only dangerous wastes and associated waste codes that are not typically found in other state guidelines.
Washington requires any waste generator with the potential to produce hazardous waste to determine their category (small, medium, or large) based on the volume of waste produced within a calendar month.
Nearly 40 counties within Washington have their own Departments of Health, which are the overseeing agencies for medical waste requirements.
Note: While Washington State has a plethora of rules and regulations for dangerous, biomedical, infectious, and toxic wastes at county levels, the state itself does not produce documents that cover statewide laws. Knowledge of local community, county and/or district regulations is essential to maintain compliance.
Where can I find additional guidance?
Guidance for waste handling and other topics regarding disposal of waste streams in the state can be found by accessing the Department Of Ecology, under the tab, “Waste and Toxics”.
More information can be found among Washington’s Administrative Code (WAC), under Dangerous Waste Regulations under Title 173, Chapter 173 through 303 in regard to dangerous waste.
Turn to the Dangerous Waste Pharmaceuticals Guide for healthcare facilities in regard to generator categories, special requirements, reporting, shipments, record-keeping, and more.
MCF Environmental Services realizes that finding guidelines for medical, hazardous, biohazardous, and industrial waste can be challenging throughout Washington. With over three decades of experience in waste management experience, we focus on compliance and safety. For more information on our products, customized services, and information regarding waste stream management in the state, contact us today.
