NIC Esthetician Written ExamSafety and Infection ControlMedium
An esthetician just completed a service and needs to dispose of contaminated waste materials, such as cotton pads with blood. According to OSHA standards, how should these materials be handled?
- ASeal them in a clear plastic bag and label it 'Biohazard'.
- BDispose of them in a red biohazard bag or container.
- CPlace them in a regular trash can lined with a plastic bag.
- DFlush them down the toilet to sanitize.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Dispose of them in a red biohazard bag or container.
Contaminated waste, especially items soiled with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM), must be placed in a clearly labeled red biohazard bag or container. This is a fundamental requirement of OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard to prevent exposure.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While labeling is important, clear plastic bags are not sufficient; a designated biohazard bag (typically red) is required.
- C. Regular trash cans are not appropriate for biohazardous waste, which requires specific handling.
- D. Flushing contaminated materials down the toilet is unsanitary and can lead to plumbing issues and environmental contamination.
Biohazardous Waste Disposal
The safe and compliant disposal of materials contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) into designated containers to prevent disease transmission.
- Mandated by OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard.
- Requires use of red biohazard bags or containers.
- Containers must be puncture-resistant if sharps are included.
- Prevents exposure to infectious agents.
Memory trick: Waste types vary, but blood means RED and BIOHAZARD.