Medical waste
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Medical waste, also known as clinical waste, refers to biological products which are essentially useless. Disposal of this waste is an environmental concern, as many medical wastes are classified as infectious or biohazardous and can spread infectious disease. Examples of infectious waste include blood, potentially contaminated "sharps" such as needles and scalpels, and flesh. Infectious waste is often incinerated, and is usually sterilized if it is to be placed in a landfill [1].
Pharmacies must also dispose of expired medications. Additionally, the medical industry uses a variety of hazardous chemicals, including radioactive materials. While such wastes are not infectious, they may be classified as hazardous wastes, and require proper disposal.
Households usually produce small quantities of infectious wastes, including blood. These are usually disposed of in a trash bin or toilet, without being sterilized.
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