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RWM Home > Programs > Biomedical

Biomedical Waste

Syringe Needle

Introduction

Introduction to Biomedical Waste Management Rules

In 1987, the Maine Legislature amended the Maine Hazardous Waste, Septage and Solid Waste Management Act in response to concerns about the potential public health and environmental hazards posed by medical waste. The Amendment defined pathogenic and infectious wastes as hazardous waste and directed the Board of Environmental Protection to adopt rules regulating the handling and disposal of biomedical waste. Public concern was driven by a series of hypodermic needle wash ups on popular public beaches and the emergence of several highly infectious diseases.

The Board of Environmental Protection adopted 06-096 CMR 900, the Biomedical Waste Management Rules in 1989 with an effective date of 1991. There are no medical waste management rules administered by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. However, the United States Department of Transportation does specify packaging and regulate the transportation of medical waste and the United States Occupational Health and Safety Administration administers the Bloodborne Pathogen standard to protect employee health and safety. For more information, please contact the Department at (207) 287-2651.

Contacts

For more information on Biomedical Waste, please call (207) 287-2651

Biomedical Statutory Sections

Chapter 13 §1319-O. Rule-making authority; hazardous waste and waste oil

Biomedical Rules

Chapter 900 - Biomedical Waste Management Rules

Forms

Application for Biomedical Waste Transporter License (pdf format)

Additonal Information

DEP Licensing Fee Schedule effective November 1, 2007 - October 31, 2008

Processing Times for New Applications effective November 1, 2007 - October 31, 2008

Active Biomedical Transporters - (pdf format) 1 Page - List of Active Biomedical Waste Transporters. This list is updated at the beginning of each month.

DEP Issue Profile Biomedical Waste Management Rules (Rich text format) - What is biomedical waste?, What is not biomedical waste ?, What is required for biomedical waste generators?, How must biomedical waste be packaged, labeled and stored?, What is required of licensed biomedical waste transporters? How is biomedical waste treated? What is a biomedical waste facility?, What is a biomedical waste treatment facility?, Where can I get more information?.

DEP Issue Profile for Household Biomedical Waste (Rich text format) - What is household biomedical waste?.

General Information for Registration of Medical Facilities (Rich text format) - What types of waste does the rule cover?, Who must register?, Is a biomedical waste management plan required?, Where does one register?, What is the Registration fee?, Questions and Assistance.

Mercury Management in the Health Care Environment

What to do if you find a discarded syringe?