Question

Which of the following is the appropriate way to handle potentially infectious laundry waste?

a) Dispose of it in a regular trash bin
b) Rinse it thoroughly and reuse if possible
c) Place it in a designated biohazard bag or container
d) Leave it in an open area for ventilation

Answer 1

The appropriate way to handle infectious laundry waste is to place it in a designated biohazard bag or container, ensuring it is properly labeled with the international biohazard symbol. Proper protective gear and disposal procedures are essential.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate way to handle potentially infectious laundry waste is to place it in a designated biohazard bag or container. This is critical to prevent the spread of infectious agents and to ensure the safety of personnel who may come into contact with these materials. It is important to note the international symbol for biohazards and to use it to label containers or bags that will hold biohazardous waste. Personnel should always wear appropriate protective gear, such as a protective coat, face protection, and cut-resistant gloves, and must be trained in proper disposal procedures, which might include sterilization through autoclaving before the waste is included in the regular waste stream. Furthermore, disinfection of the work area should be done both before and after handling such materials, and any spills involving bacterial cultures should be saturated with disinfectant and disposed of in the biohazard waste with due care.