Services
Do I need a medical waste management company?
Yes; local, state, and federal regulations require medical waste to be properly managed by the generator, transporter, and treatment facilities to prevent risks of exposure or injury from potentially dangerous and in some cases hazardous waste to people, the community, and the environment.
How quickly can I be set up with service?
Fast! Our process is simple and easy. Contact us for a medical waste disposal quote, or any of the other services we provide and we can have you set up within minutes and on the schedule within days. It’s that easy.
How much will I pay for medical waste disposal services?
Pricing for medical waste disposal is based on several factors, including waste volume, type of waste, types of containers, number of sharps containers needed, service frequency, and your location(s). For a free and accurate quote, click here.
How do I change my frequency of service?
For any changes to your current service agreement, please contact our client services at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com. We are happy to make accommodations or recommendations for service that best fits the customer needs. To expedite your request, please include your customer number.
I am currently set up for call in service. How do I get on the schedule for routing service?
At BWS, we offer a variety of service frequencies that best fits each customer’s needs. For any changes to your current service agreement, please contact our client services at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com. To expedite your request, please include your customer number.
Does BWS service the customers itself?
At BWS, we transport medical waste using our privately-owned fleet of trucks operated by BWS specialized service technicians. Some wastes may require special collection procedures or vehicles in which we may partner with our hazardous waste division or other qualified partners to service the pick up.
A pickup was missed. What do I do?
We apologize for any interruption in service and are happy to get you back on the schedule. Please contact our client services at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com. To expedite your request, please include your customer number.
Does BWS have its own processing facility?
Yes, at BWS we treat medical waste at our facility using autoclave technology. Learn more about our facility and treatment process.
What are the benefits of using a shred service?
At BWS, our secure document shredding services help increase our customer’s workplace productivity, risk management of patient information and records, and provides an environmentally friendly method for document disposal. The additional benefit using BWS for document shredding is our medical waste technicians also service the document console, so you have one company, one person handling all of your sensitive waste disposal needs. Learn more about our secure document shredding services or read about about partnering with a professional shredding company in our blog.
Does BWS have its own fleet of trucks?
Yes, at BWS we have a privately-owned fleet of trucks operated by our specialized service technicians. Learn more about the benefits of our fleet, our facility and our process. Some wastes may require special collection procedures or vehicles in which we may partner with our hazardous waste division or other qualified partners to service the pick up.
What process does BWS use to dispose of medical waste?
At BWS, we use autoclave technology to dispose of regulated medical waste. Not all medical wastes, such as hazardous waste can be treated using autoclave technology. Learn more about our facility and treatment process.
What waste types do you collect?
BWS services all medical waste streams generated by a variety of industries. These wastes include regulated medical waste, sharps, document disposal, pharmaceutical, chemotherapy, hazardous, universal, and specialty waste. A major portion of the medical waste we collect is generated by healthcare facilities, dentists, and doctor’s offices, however there are many other industries and facilities we service that generate a variety of wastes.
Are there any wastes you do not accept/collect/dispose?
Unidentified waste, household waste, illegal substances, and medical waste not properly packaged or labelled cover most of the waste types we do not accept. If you have any questions about acceptable waste we collect, please contact us at 410-437-6590.
Do you pick up expired medications or pharmaceuticals?
Yes, we have services to collect, transport, and dispose of pharmaceuticals both non-regulated, non-hazardous and RCRA hazardous.
Do you service all healthcare facilities?
Yes, at BWS we service facilities of all sizes, large operations like hospitals and institutions, to independent practices. We are equipped to service every customer or business regardless of the operation size or service needs.
I am a dentist or work at a dental office. How do we dispose of amalgam waste?
At BWS, we partner with Solmetex, an industry-leading manufacturer and disposal company to offer amalgam waste collection and recycling services. To learn more about the amalgam waste products and services we offer, visit our Dental Amalgam Store. For instructions on how to ship your amalgam waste products for recycling, check out our step-by-step guide.
How do I change my frequency of service?
For any changes to your current service agreement, please contact our client services at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com. We are happy to make accommodations or recommendations for service that best fits the customer needs. To expedite your request, please include your customer number.
When is my next pick up?
You can log into the Client Portal to see your next scheduled pick up. If you need further assistance, one of our client care team members can provide you a copy of your service calendar. Please contact our client services at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com. To expedite your request, please include your customer number.
How do I get a copy of my service calendar?
One of our client service team members can provide you a copy of your service calendar. Please contact our client services at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com. To expedite your request, please include your customer number. You can also view your next scheduled pick up by accessing the Client Portal.
I am interested in having someone come to my facility and help us optimize our medical waste streams. Do you offer consulting services?
Yes! Please call us at 410-437-6590. We will be happy to discuss your needs and see how we can be of assistance. Learn more about our Consulting, Waste Reduction, and Audit services.
Do you pick up biohazardous waste from COVID-19 testing sites?
Yes! We service many COVID-19 testing sites throughout the mid-Atlantic region and are equipped to manage sites of any size. Contact us today to get started.
Do you provide services for COVID-19 vaccinations sites?
Yes, we do. Whether they are "pop up" sites or pharmacies administering the vaccine, we have the experience and resources to manage vaccine medical waste and sharps disposal of any volume. Contact us for more information and to get started.
How do I print my Solmetex amalgam waste recycling shipping label?
For instructions on how to ship your amalgam waste products for recycling, check out our step-by-step guide.
Do you service veterinary clinics and hospitals?
Yes! We offer a variety of convenient medical waste management and compliance solutions tailored to veterinary clinics and hospitals. Contact us for more information and a quote.
What are the new medical waste management regulations in Virginia?
Virginia state Depart of Environmental Quality (DEQ) announced regulation changes in March 2023. Read more about the regulation changes effecting medical waste generators here.
Invoicing
Who can I contact about questions on an invoice?
For any questions related to billing or invoicing, please give us a call at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com and one of our team members will be happy to assist you.
Can I view my invoices online?
You can access documents, such as invoices on our online Client Portal. For any services prior to January 1, 2023 log in here.
I have not received an invoice for my last service. How can I get a copy?
We apologize if there was a mishap with the mail or missed email. You can access documents, such as invoices on our online customer portal or contact us at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com and one of our team members will be happy to assist you.
How do I make a payment?
Payments can be made online, mailed check, or by credit card. We can take check and credit card payments over the phone at 410-437-6590. You can also make a payment by logging into the Client Portal.
What is the energy and fuel surcharge on my invoice?
The energy and fuel surcharge cover our operating and transportation costs. If you need more information, please contact us at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com and one of our team members will be happy to assist you.
What are the payment terms of my invoice?
General payment terms are 30 days after service. If you need more information, please contact us at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com and one of our team members will be happy to assist you.
Can I receive invoices by email?
Yes! If you prefer to receive invoices by email only, please contact us at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com and one of our team members will be happy to assist you.
Can I receive paper invoices by mail?
Yes! If you prefer to receive paper invoices by mail only, please contact us at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com and one of our team members will be happy to assist you.
What is autopay?
There is an option to set up a credit card on your account which will automatically be charged when an invoice is generated. This can be set up on your account at any time by contacting us at customercare@bwaste.com or a self-service feature on the Client Portal.
Why is there a late fee on my invoice?
Invoice payments are generally due 30 days after the invoice date. After 30 days, if no payment is received, you may start to incur late fees. If you need more information, please contact us and one of our team members will be happy to assist you.
Client Portal
How do I get my password for the Client Portal?
If you are experiencing any issues getting logged in, please contact us at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com and one of our team members will be happy to assist you. To expedite your request, please include your customer number.
Can I access my waste destruction manifests on the Client Portal?
Yes, you can access documents, such as waste destruction manifests on our online Client Portal. For any services June 1, 2020 - December 31,2022, log in here. To access manifests for services after January 1, 2023, access this customer portal. These are available in the Client Portal once the waste has been treated and properly disposed of.
Can I access my certificate of destruction on the Client Portal?
Yes, you can access documents, such as certificates of destruction on our online Client Portal. For any services June 1, 2020 - December 31, 2022, log in here. To access certificates of destruction for services after January 1, 2023, access this customer portal. These are available in the Client Portal once the documents collected for shredding are properly processed.
Can I view my invoices online?
You can access documents, such as invoices on our online Client Portal. For services after June 1, 2020 - December 31, 2022, log in here. To access invoices for services after January 1, 2023, access this customer portal.
Products
Does BWS provide medical waste containers to customers?
Yes, we have a variety of medical waste containers for all disposal needs. View options in our Products
What size medical waste containers do you offer?
We have a variety of medical waste containers available. View options in our Products
What size sharps containers do you have?
We have a variety of disposable and reusable sharps containers available. View options in our Products
Safety
I have home-generated sharps. Does BWS have service available to the public?
Yes, we have green sharps kiosks located throughout our service area. The green sharps kiosk program was developed by BWS to provide our community a safe and compliant solution to dispose of home-generated sharps. Contact us at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com to locate a green sharps kiosk near you.
I have home-generated sharps. Can I place loose syringes or needles into the green sharps kiosk?
It is strongly recommended that you place the home-generated sharps waste into a container before dropping it off into a Sharps Kiosk. Using the Sharps Kiosk for loose sharps is not recommended for safety reasons. It creates unnecessary risk and puts more people at danger for potential injury. Users should always follow EPA guidelines for disposing their home-generated sharps. Learn more about our Community Sharps Safety program.
How can I get a sharps kiosk installed in my area?
Safe sharps disposal is a community issue and successful solutions often require the community to help organize public safety advocacy resources. If you require any assistance with getting a Sharps Kiosk installed in your area or need help locating a safe sharps drop off kiosk, please call us at 410-437-6590.
What are some steps we can take in our office to safely manage our sharps containers?
Managing sharps in the workplace requires many safety measures to keep everyone protected. Check out our Simple Steps to Sharps Safety resource guide or contact us to help manage safety training and sharps waste.
Should I empty my sharps into the biohazard box/container?
No, you should never empty sharps containers or loose needles directly into the biohazard box or reusable RMW container. They must go into a disposable sharps container first. Once locked and secured, the sharps container should then go into the biohazard box or reusable RMW container for final disposal. Learn more safety and packaging information in our Simple Steps to Sharps Safety resource guide.
As an employer, what can I do to help make a diabetic-friendly workplace for my employees managing their diabetes?
We have a variety of disposable sharps containers and secure wall mount that are perfect for the workplace. Check out our products here.
Sustainability
What weight of medical waste does BWS reduce each year using autoclave technology?
We process over 350,000 lbs of medical waste each month using our autoclave technology, which reduces the original volume by at least 50% and is 100% diverted from landfills. Learn more about our "cradle to grave" process and operations.
What “green” efforts does BWS include in their operations and facility to reduce their impact to the environment?
We are a virtually zero waste facility, where nothing is wasted or goes on to landfills. All waste that we produce or collect from over 9,000 customers goes through our treatment process or recycled. Learn more about our "cradle to grave" process and operations.
What are some of recycling efforts incorporated in operations at BWS?
Everything we do is with the safety of the environment in mind. We shred and recycle over 50,000 lbs of paper monthly, which saves about 5,100 trees annually. We recycle about 30,000 lbs of corrugated medical waste boxes each month, which saves 8,820 gallons of oil annually. We also recycle about 7,000 florescent lamps a week, which diverts approximately 520 lbs of mercury from being released into the environment annually. Learn more about our "cradle to grave" process and operations.
Waste Classifications
What is medical waste?
According to EPA regulations, generally, medical waste is waste that may be contaminated by blood, body fluids or other potentially infectious materials and is often referred to as regulated waste. Medical waste is generated at healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, physicians' offices, dental practices, blood banks, veterinary hospitals/clinics, as well as medical research facilities and laboratories, to name a few.
What are the different types of medical waste?
Some examples of different types of medical waste can include contaminated bandages/gauze, blood contaminated items, plastic tubing, contaminated PPE (personal protective equipment), and closed/lock disposable sharps. Learn more here in our Integrated Waste Classification resource guide.
What is pathological waste?
Human pathological wastes, including tissues, organs, body parts and body fluids that are removed during surgery or autopsy, or other medical procedures, and specimens of body fluids and their containers.
What is mercury?
Mercury is considered a hazardous waste and can be found in several products that must be disposed of properly. Dental amalgam ("silver filling"), certain light bulbs, and some batteries contain mercury and are common waste streams in healthcare and other industries.
Where is mercury found?
Mercury can be found in a variety of consumer products, such as Dental amalgam ("silver filling"), certain light bulbs, and some batteries.
What are the impacts of mercury exposure to the environment if not disposed of properly?
If not disposed of properly, mercury containing products can enter publicly-owned waste treatment facilities not equipped to dispose of mercury resulting in mercury containing products being disposed of in landfills, emitted into the air, or deposited into water bodies, land, and vegetation subsequently contaminating the environment.
Do the different types of waste have to be separated?
Yes, the different types of waste (regulated medical waste and pathological) must each be placed in separate containers and labelled as such in order to accurately and properly manage and dispose of each type of waste correctly. Learn more here in our "Know Where to Throw" resource guide.
What type of waste can be placed in the medical waste box?
Types of waste that can be placed in the medical waste box or container include, but not limited to are gauze, table paper, blood-soaked items, intravenous bags, gloves, gowns, bandages, closed and locked shut disposable sharps containers, etc. Learn more in our "Know Where to Throw" resource guide.
What types of waste can not be placed in the medical waste box?
Waste classified as hazardous or radioactive, loose syringes or needles, and glass items can not be placed in the medical waste box. Learn more here in our "Know Where to Throw" resource guide.
What goes into a sharps container?
Items such as needles, syringes, test tubes, vials, slides, razor blades, scalpels, knives, tweezers, scissors, etc. can all go into sharps containers. Learn more in our Waste Classification guide and Simple Steps to Sharps Safety resource to help keep everyone in the workplace safe.
Compliance & Training
Do you offer OSHA online compliance training services?
Yes! Our comprehensive OSHA online compliance training service program includes a variety of training modules, as well as safety plan builders, safety audits, and more. Learn more about our OSHA online compliance training services.
How do I purchase more OSHA training credits?
To purchase more OSHA online training credits for your account, please call us at 410-437-6590.
Can I use the training for CE (Continuing Education) credits?
The certificates received for training using our OSHA online compliance program generally do not qualify for CE (Continuing Education) credits. However, they do keep you and your organization OSHA compliant and update to date on OSHA requirements.
Can I use the training for CE (Continuing Education) credits?
The certificates received for training using our OSHA online compliance program generally do not qualify for CE (Continuing Education) credits. However, they do keep you and your organization OSHA compliant and update to date on OSHA requirements.
Can I access MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) sheets in the OSHA online compliance program?
Yes! You have access to millions of MSDS's. Learn more about all the features and benefits of our online OSHA compliance training program.
Do you offer compliance consulting services?
Yes! Please call us at 410-437-6590. We will be happy to discuss your needs and see how we can be of assistance. Whether you need OSHA compliance training tools or consulting services to streamline your medical waste processes, we have the solution.
Do BWS employees take OSHA training?
Yes, we routinely provide training and updates on EPA, DOT, and local, state, and federal compliance regulations to our service technicians, autoclave technicians, and officer personnel.
Document Shredding
Do you offer one-time/purge document disposal services?
Yes! Click here to request a quote. You can also learn more about our shredding services here.
Do you shred the documents on site or off site?
We shred the documents, hard drives, media, and more on-site using our state-of-the-art mobile shredding trucks and off-site at our secure facility using an industrial size shredder.
I have a BWS console. I lost my key. What do I do?
No problem! Please call as at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com. We will be happy to make arrangements to get you a new key.
BWS picks up my medical waste. Can I set up document shredding service on the same schedule as my medical waste pick up?
Yes! We can align both medical waste and document shredding schedules, so you have one of our specialized waste technicians handling all of your sensitive waste needs at the same time. Please call as at 410-437-6590 or email us at customercare@bwaste.com. We will be happy to help.
Do you recycle the shredding after its been picked up and processed?
Yes! All of the waste from document shredding is 100% recycled.
Do you shred hard drives?
Yes, we can shred hard drive on-site with our mobile shred truck or off-site here at our secure processing facility.
What types of media should be shredded?
Hard drives, USB's, CD's, and x-ray film are examples of media containing confidential or sensitive information. Click here to learn more about our Secure Media Destruction.
What type of business documents should be shredded?
Documents such as bank statements, human resource files, patient records, and internal financial records are examples of business documents to shred for complete protection of sensitive and confidential information.
Do you offer shredding services for non-healthcare businesses?
Yes! We offer on-site and off-site shredding services for a variety of industries, included Tax and Accounting Firms, Banks, Retail, Law Firms, Insurance, Title Companies, Fine Arts, and more. Click here to request a quote.
What happens hard drives & media after they are shredded?
Most bits and pieces can be recycled for reuse.
Can a shredded hard drive or media be recovered?
No, after shredding media such as hard drives and USB's, data is unrecoverable. Shredding media is the most secure method of protecting data stored on these types of devices.
Can I watch my hard drives being shredded?
Yes, our mobile shred truck has data destruction capabilities with a camera onboard to watch!
Does removing a hard drive from a PC or laptop remove all data?
No, simply removing a hard drive won't erase any data or digital content
Should I remove binder clips and hanging files from my documents for shredding?
Yes, big binder clips should be removed before documents are shredded. Hanging files should be removed too. During a shred cleanout, hanging files are left with customer. Click here to learn more about preparing for a document shredding service.
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We provide an outstanding value and service to our regulated waste customers and pride ourselves on our 100% customer satisfaction with 99% customer retention ratio.
