Medical Sharps & Biohazard Disposal Inspection Checklist

Are sharps containers filled no more than 3/4 full, preventing overflow and potential needle sticks?

Are sharps containers puncture-resistant, leak-proof on sides and bottom, and properly labeled with the biohazard symbol?

Are sharps containers securely mounted or placed to prevent accidental tipping or spills?

Are sharps containers easily accessible to healthcare workers at the point of use?

Do sharps containers have a functional, secure lid that can be easily closed and locked for final disposal?

Inspect each container for any signs of damage (cracks, leaks, deformation) before use and during weekly audits.

Are sharps containers located as close as feasible to the immediate area where sharps are used (e.g., patient bedside, phlebotomy station)?

Are sharps containers clearly visible and not obstructed by other objects?

Verify that the sharps containers have not exceeded their expiration date.

Confirm that the biohazard labels on the sharps containers are legible and securely attached.

Are biohazard waste bags red or orange, clearly marked with the biohazard symbol, and of sufficient thickness to prevent tearing or leaks?

Are biohazard bags filled no more than 3/4 full to allow for secure closure and prevent spills during handling?

Are biohazard bags securely closed using a gooseneck knot, tape, or zip tie to prevent leakage?

Are biohazard bags placed in rigid, leak-proof containers with tight-fitting lids during transport and storage?

Is the biohazard waste storage area secured to prevent unauthorized access?

Is the biohazard waste storage area clean, dry, and free from pests?

Is biohazard waste properly segregated from other types of waste (e.g., general trash, recyclable materials)?

Are personnel handling biohazard waste wearing appropriate PPE, including gloves, gowns, and eye protection?

Are biohazard waste bags labeled with the date and location of origin?

Ensure biohazard bags do not exceed the maximum weight limit specified by the waste disposal company.

Are dedicated carts used for transporting sharps containers and biohazard waste, preventing cross-contamination?

Are transport carts regularly cleaned and disinfected?

Are sharps containers and biohazard bags secured on the transport cart to prevent tipping or spills during transport?

Is the transport route clear of obstructions and hazards?

Is a readily accessible spill kit available in areas where sharps and biohazard waste are handled and transported?

Does the spill kit contain appropriate PPE (gloves, eye protection, gown), absorbent materials, disinfectant, and biohazard waste bags?

Are personnel trained on the proper procedures for cleaning up spills of blood or other potentially infectious materials?

Is there a clear procedure for reporting spills and exposures to bloodborne pathogens?

Are personnel transporting sharps and biohazard waste trained on proper handling procedures and potential hazards?

Are transport carts regularly inspected and maintained to ensure proper functionality?

Is a sharps injury log maintained, documenting all needle stick injuries and other sharps-related incidents?

Is a written Exposure Control Plan (ECP) readily available and updated annually?

Have all employees who handle sharps or biohazard waste received bloodborne pathogen training within the past year?

Are training records maintained for all employees who have received bloodborne pathogen training?

Are disposal manifests for biohazard waste properly completed and retained?

Are incident reports completed for all sharps injuries and biohazard waste spills?

Is there a documented procedure for post-exposure evaluation and follow-up after a sharps injury or exposure to bloodborne pathogens?

Is an inventory of sharps containers maintained, including location and fill dates?

Is there a current contract with a licensed medical waste disposal company?

Is the Exposure Control Plan reviewed and updated at least annually, or whenever new procedures or equipment are introduced?