Regulatory Compliance
C D A J O U R N A L , V O L 4 9 , Nº 11
Regulated Waste Management CDA Practice Support
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ental practices have two types of regulated waste: hazardous and medical. Each type is regulated by separate laws and, in many communities, different agencies. This article summarizes what comprises each waste type, rules on storage and disposal and registration and documentation requirements.
of toxic hydrogen sulfide gas as the material decomposes. Recycling is the preferred option for disposing of this material. If closing a dental practice and in possession of a lot of models, contact the local landfill office for information on disposal options. Other hazardous wastes generated by dental practices have the option of being managed as universal waste. Universal
waste is a category of hazardous waste widely produced by households and different types of businesses. Universal wastes cannot be disposed in landfills and should be recycled. Hazardous and universal wastes may not be stored for longer than one year. Each type of waste should be collected in their own nonbreakable and closeable container and labeled with the contents and the
Hazardous Waste
Dental wastes in this category include glutaraldehyde, amalgam, photographic fixer and lead. State and federal hazardous waste laws regulate waste characterization. California imposes rules on storage and disposal of hazardous waste. Waste generators must register with their local agency, which works in conjunction with the state Department of Toxic Substances Control. A hazardous waste management plan and California EPA ID number may be required. Glutaraldehyde waste must be managed as a hazardous waste unless it is treated to render it nonhazardous. Treatment of hazardous waste in California typically requires a permit. However, a permit is not necessary if glutaraldehyde waste is treated with a solution containing glycine as its only active ingredient. A dental practice should check with its local sanitation agency to verify that the treated solution may be disposed safely down the drain. Although not categorized as a hazardous waste, large amounts of plaster disposed at a landfill can potentially lead to the formation N OVEMBER 2 0 2 1 LDM_CDA_Journal_1.3_Square_LindaBrown_05_23_17.indd 1
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