The Difference Between Bio-Hazardous, Infectious, and Pathological Wastes

2017/06/02

The Difference Between Bio-Hazardous, Infectious, and Pathological Wastes

What is Bio-Hazardous Waste?

Biohazardous waste is classified as any waste which contains infectious, or potentially infectious, material such as blood. A good example of bio-hazardous waste would be sharps waste. Sharps waste obviously could contain potentially infectious material, but it's hard to actually recognize that it does in fact contain something infectious.

What is Infectious Waste?

Infectious waste is classified as any waste which is capable of causing infectious diseases, whether it is liquid, semi-liquid, or dry. Whereas bio-hazardous waste is any waste which contains infectious waste, infectious waste is classified as any waste that is capable of causing infectious disease.

What is Pathological Waste?

Pathological waste is classified as any recognizable organ, body part, or tissue from a human or animal. When we're comparing pathological waste vs. bio-hazardous, one main distinction would be that pathological waste is commonly recognizable as parts of a human or animal body. The Difference Between Bio-Hazardous, Infectious, and Pathological Wastes

So what is the difference between the three?

In truth, not much. Bio-hazardous waste and infectious waste are practically one in the same. If something is bio-hazardous, it is also going to be classified as infectious. Pathological waste does have a slight difference in definition, but it is also commonly classified as bio-hazardous simply because human or animal tissue is capable of spreading infection.

How do I Dispose of These Wastes Correctly?

So the real important question here is how can you effectively dispose of these different types of waste if they are so close in definition? In truth, it's actually quite hard, and the regulations are constantly changing. Here at BWS, we go through constant training on updates as to what is classified as one or the other. For this reason, it's actually best to hire a regulated waste disposal service to help you with classifying and disposing of any of your bio-hazardous, infectious, or pathological wastes. BWS, Inc. is a regulated waste solutions company who helps waste generators of all types and sizes dispose of their waste effectively and according to federal and state regulations. For more information on our waste removal service, give BWS a call today at 800-660-6581 or fill out the form on our website for a free quote on our services.

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Kate Blair English

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Keith Roberts, Biomatrix Specialty Pharmacy

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Mireia Pedragosa Marin, Synergy Research

They were responsive and quickly start services. They were also great at answering all my questions and updating on when services would start.

Rebecca Crouse, Randolph Macon Academy

We used BWS for sharps disposal at a doctor's office. I saw their bright truck in the parking lot at work which lead me to call for a quote. They responded to my inquiry quickly and thoroughly, answering all my questions. They gave me pricing that was very reasonable, and lower than many companies I checked. They were a pleasure to communicate with via phone and email, no phone tag! The truck arrived the day and time we planned. The driver was very personable and easy to communicate with. The people I interacted with seem to understand the value of customer service. I would highly recommend them. They will take care of you.

Melissa C, Patriot Chiropractic

Excellent, professional service and very reasonable price on medical waste removal. Danielle was fantastic to work with - thanks Danielle!

Dr. Rosario Ignacio

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Dr. Thomas Lutz, Odenton Family Dentistry

I've used BWS for several years now. Their service is great and their fees are very reasonable, making BWS a great value in hazardous waste removal. Over the 20+ years that I have used them the scope of their services has increased as well as making documentation of their service easier to use!

Dr. Louis Sachs, DDS

I ran a dental charity for many years, organizing huge clinics to treat those in need. BWS donated their waste disposal services for every clinic for many years, and they continue to do so to this day. This is always a huge job, and they are always reliable, dedicated, and fun to work with. They know what it means to give back.

Eric B.

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