Knowing which drugs need to be disposed of in hazardous waste containers is vital. Compliance with federal and state regulations reduces the potential for fines and penalties while at the same time increasing safety. Proper management, protocols, and in-house processes for any facility that handles or receives hazardous drugs also protects human health and the environment.

How are hazardous drugs defined?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, hazardous waste is defined as “a waste with properties that make it dangerous or capable of having a harmful effect on human health or the environment.” Rather than regulate individual medications, the EPA regulates hazardous characteristics and chemicals under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). When a medication exhibits or containers a listed chemical, it must be managed in accordinace with the regulations. Read more >