General Laboratory Waste

Proper management of laboratory waste at Georgetown University is essential to protect personnel, the environment, and the University community. All laboratory personnel are responsible for segregating, labeling, and disposing of waste according to type and hazard.

General laboratory waste includes non-hazardous materials that are generated during routine laboratory activities, such as:

• Paper towels, kimwipes, and other clean absorbent materials
• Non-contaminated packaging, gloves, and disposable lab supplies
• Broken glassware that is free of chemical or biological contamination (placed in designated sharps containers if applicable)

General laboratory waste must never be mixed with chemical, biological, radioactive, or regulated hazardous waste. All waste should be placed in appropriate containers, securely closed, and removed regularly according to University procedures. Principal Investigators and supervisors are responsible for ensuring that personnel are trained on proper waste segregation and disposal. EH&S provides guidance on waste classification, container requirements, and disposal schedules to ensure compliance with University policy and federal and local regulations.

General Guidelines

• Non-hazardous trash: Everyday, non-contaminated items such as paper towels, clean packaging, and non-contaminated disposable lab supplies may be placed in standard trash containers.
• Segregation: Laboratory trash must never be mixed with chemical, biological, radioactive, or sharps waste. Hazardous materials must follow EH&S-approved waste procedures.
• Container management: Trash containers must be lined, maintained in good condition, and emptied regularly to prevent overflow. Containers should be kept closed when not in use.
• Spill and contamination control: Trash that becomes contaminated with hazardous materials must be treated as regulated waste and handled according to EH&S guidance.

Recycling in the Laboratory

Laboratories at Georgetown University generate a variety of recyclable materials, including paper, cardboard, plastics, and metals. While recycling is encouraged, laboratory recycling must never compromise safety or regulatory compliance. Only non-hazardous, uncontaminated materials may be placed in standard recycling bins. Materials that are contaminated with chemicals, biological agents, radioactive isotopes, or sharps must be managed through the appropriate hazardous waste stream and cannot be recycled through the University’s general program. All containers must be defaced before disposal. (include a photo)

Broken Glass and Glassware Disposal

Glassware that is broken, defective, or no longer needed must be handled and disposed of safely to prevent cuts and injuries. At Georgetown University, broken glass that is not contaminated with hazardous chemicals, biological agents, or radioactive materials must be collected in a dedicated broken glass container—not in regular trash bags or mixed with other waste streams.