New York Biohazard Waste Regulations

Highlighted Requirements

The generator is responsible for properly packaging and labeling RWM for off-site transport and for completing a Medical Waste Tracking Form (MWTF)

Generators located in New York City may have additional requirements and should contact their local health department

Overview

New York’s medical waste disposal regulations are managed by the New York Department of Environmental Conservation. Generators located in New York City may have additional requirements and should contact their local health department. The complete detailed disposal requirements are outlined in Guidance for Regulated Medical Waste Treatment, Storage, Containment, Transport and Disposal  .

OSHA Regulations

In addition to the state medical waste environmental regulations there are some Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rules that apply to medical/infectious waste. New York is one of 24 states operating an approved occupational safety and health program. However, the New York program only covers the workplace safety and health of public sector employees only. Private sector employees in New York are covered by Federal OSHA. OSHA state and federal 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.