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Does RCRA regulate wastes that may contain the virus that causes COVID-19, such as used medical equipment or personal protective equipment?

RCRA creates the framework for the proper management of hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste.   Non-hazardous solid wastes, including medical waste and infectious waste, are subject to state solid waste regulatory programs. State programs can vary.   RCRA regulations do not define wastes as hazardous due to their infectious nature, including those contaminated by the novel coronavirus which causes COVID-19.  EPA has, however, established air emission standards for solid waste incinerators that treat “Hospital/Medical/Infectious” wastes.

Return to Frequent Questions about Waste and Coronavirus (COVID-19).

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