Alabama Biohazard Waste Regulations

Highlighted Requirements

Storage of medical waste by the generator must not exceed seven calendar days from the date initial storage begins unless waste is refrigerated at a temperature less than 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

Storage requirements [above] do not apply to generators who generate less than 220 pounds per month of medical waste.

Overview

Alabama’s medical waste disposal regulations are managed by the Department of Environmental Management Land Division. The complete detailed disposal requirements are outlined in Medical Waste Program Regulations, Division 17.

OSHA Regulations

In addition to the state medical waste environmental regulations there are some Occupational Safety and Health Administration rules that apply to medical/infectious waste. Alabama is one of 26 states covered entirely by the federal OSHA program. OSHA rules (Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens Standards) impact various aspects of medical/infectious waste, including management of sharps, requirements for containers that hold or store medical/infectious waste, labeling of medical/infectious waste bags/containers, and employee training.