What kind of waste is categorized under contaminated sharps?

Contaminated sharps refer to items that can puncture or cut the skin and are capable of transmitting infectious agents. Broken glass from laboratory samples fits this definition, as it can become contaminated with potentially dangerous biological materials and poses a risk of injury and infection to healthcare workers handling it. This waste must be disposed of in a special sharps container that is puncture-resistant to prevent injury and compliance with safety regulations.

The other types of waste listed do not meet the criteria for contaminated sharps. Used bandages generally do not have sharp edges and, while they may be biohazardous, they do not pose a cutting hazard. Empty vials are typically not sharp and would not contain infectious material if cleaned properly. General medical office waste does not specify any sharp instruments and usually refers to non-contaminated or non-sharp waste products. Understanding the specific characteristics of contaminated sharps is crucial for appropriate disposal and maintaining safety in a medical or laboratory setting.