How should disposable PPE be disposed of?

Disposable personal protective equipment (PPE) should be disposed of in a designated biohazard waste container. This is crucial for infection prevention and control as some types of PPE, such as masks, gloves, and gowns, may be contaminated with infectious agents that pose a risk to public health and safety.

Using biohazard waste containers ensures that contaminated items are handled safely and transported to appropriate facilities for proper disposal. These containers are specifically designed to prevent leakage and are often clearly marked to indicate that their contents must be managed according to regulatory standards for infectious waste.

In contrast, disposing of disposable PPE in regular trash bins does not provide the necessary precautions against potential contamination, putting waste handlers and the general public at risk. Recycling is also inappropriate for PPE, as it can lead to the spread of infection and is not designed for items that may have been exposed to pathogens. Lastly, sharps containers are specifically intended for sharp objects like needles and blades, not for general PPE, which does not qualify as sharps.