How should contaminated packaging from an HD spill be handled?

• A. Dispose in regular trash
• B. Place contaminated packaging in the appropriate hazard waste bag; decontaminate packaging surfaces
• C. Return to supplier
• D. Flush down sink

Answer: (B)

Handling contaminated HD packaging involves treating it as hazardous waste and cleaning any residue from the packaging before disposal. The best approach is to place the contaminated packaging into the appropriate hazardous waste bag or container, then decontaminate the packaging surfaces using an approved cleaning agent and procedure so that no residual contamination remains. This protects staff, prevents environmental exposure, and ensures waste is managed through the proper hazardous waste stream.

Disposing in regular trash is not acceptable because hazardous drug waste must follow specialized waste procedures. Returning contaminated packaging to the supplier is not a standard disposal method, and flushing to the sink can spread contamination and harm the environment.