The clinical setting

In addition to sharps waste management requirements, used gloves, aprons, swabs, dressings and other non-sharps materials that are contaminated with body fluids do require segregation if generated in quantity by work-related activity. Within the clinical setting, this waste is likely to be assumed infectious and will be disposed of as Category B waste. This must be disposed of in an orange-lidded bin or bag, and by licensed or permitted treatment facility. With the exception of certain laboratory wastes - eg high titre culture - very little Category A waste will be produced from healthcare premises within the UK, hence the categorisation of most healthcare waste as Category B.