Infectious waste is one of the most critical waste streams in healthcare. Mismanagement doesn’t just put patients and staff at risk — it can also lead to legal consequences, reputational damage and environmental harm. At Harrison Benn, we’ve spent over 30 years helping healthcare providers across the UK handle infectious waste safely, efficiently and in full compliance with the law.
This guide explains what infectious waste is, the risks it carries and how to dispose of it properly.
What Is Infectious Waste?
Infectious waste includes any waste material that contains or is suspected to contain, pathogens in sufficient quantity to cause disease in humans or animals. It’s often generated in clinical, laboratory and care settings.
Examples include:
- Blood-soaked dressings or bandages
- Laboratory cultures or stocks of infectious agents
- Items contaminated with bodily fluids (e.g. gloves, swabs, gowns)
- Waste from patients in isolation due to infectious diseases
- Sharps contaminated with infectious materials
This waste must be segregated, stored, transported and treated in strict accordance with UK regulations.
The Risks of Mishandling Infectious Waste
Failing to manage infectious waste properly can have serious consequences:
- Health hazards – Spread of diseases to staff, patients, waste handlers or the public.
- Legal repercussions – Breaches of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and related regulations can result in fines or prosecution.
- Reputational damage – Poor waste management undermines trust in healthcare providers.
- Environmental impact – Inappropriate disposal can contaminate soil, water or air.
Safe Disposal: Best Practices
1. Segregate at Source
Identify and separate infectious waste immediately at the point of generation. UK guidance requires infectious waste to be placed in orange clinical waste bags or rigid, correctly labelled containers for sharps.
2. Use Approved Containers
Bags and bins must meet UN3291 standards. They should be durable, puncture-resistant where necessary and sealed when three-quarters full.
3. Store Securely
Hold infectious waste in a designated, secure area away from public access until collection.
4. Arrange Licensed Collection
Only registered waste carriers, like Harrison Benn, are authorised to collect and transport infectious waste for treatment or disposal.
5. Maintain Documentation
Keep consignment notes and waste transfer records for the required period to prove compliance during inspections.
Why Partner with Harrison Benn?
Managing infectious waste isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about protecting people, safeguarding the environment and ensuring your facility operates smoothly. We provide:
- Fully compliant collections across the UK
- Tailored schedules to suit your operation
- Expert advice on waste segregation and storage
- Sustainable treatment options where possible
If your healthcare facility needs a reliable, compliant and experienced partner for infectious waste disposal, contact Harrison Benn today.