Medical Waste

Medical waste should be managed carefully to protect people and the environment. Disposal options depend on where and how the waste was generated.

Home-generated medical waste: This includes waste from medications, testing supplies, injectable medications, and materials saturated with bodily fluids that are generated in a private residence.

Sharps: Place used needles, syringes, and other sharps in a rigid plastic container, such as an empty laundry-detergent bottle. Securely tape the lid closed and label the container “Do Not Recycle.” The sealed container may be placed in the trash. Never place loose sharps in the trash or recycling. (Vermont DEC – Safe Disposal of Sharps)

Unused medications: Do not flush medications or place them in recycling. Unused and expired medications can be taken to an approved medication collection location or drug take-back event. (Vermont DEC – Household Hazardous Waste)

Regulated medical waste: Medical waste generated by health care facilities, licensed health care professionals, or trauma scenes is regulated medical waste and must be managed separately from ordinary household trash. This can include used or unused needles and syringes removed from their original packaging, as well as waste containing blood or other potentially infectious materials. Do not place regulated medical waste in household trash or recycling. Businesses and institutions should use a permitted medical-waste hauler or contact Vermont DEC for disposal requirements. (Vermont DEC – Regulated Medical Waste)

For businesses and health care facilities: Vermont DEC provides requirements for the storage, treatment, transportation, and disposal of regulated medical waste. A list of registered waste transporters is available through the state.

Vermont DEC – Safe Disposal of Sharps & Regulated Medical Waste

Vermont DEC – Regulated Medical Waste Procedures