What is NOT considered a hazardous waste?

• A. Autoclaved Serum
• B. Used solvents
• C. Batteries
• D. Pesticide containers

Answer: (A)

Hazardous waste is defined by its characteristics (ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic) or by listing. Biological or medical waste is hazardous mainly because of infectious or chemical hazards, and when such waste is properly decontaminated, it may no longer meet those hazardous criteria. Autoclaving serum sterilizes it and eliminates infectious agents, so the material no longer poses the hazards that define hazardous waste. If there are no remaining hazardous chemicals or regulatory listings, autoclaved serum can be disposed as nonhazardous waste under typical local rules.

Used solvents retain hazardous properties like flammability or toxicity, so they are considered hazardous waste. Batteries contain hazardous components such as heavy metals, making them hazardous. Pesticide containers can hold or carry residues of hazardous pesticides, which also keeps them in the hazardous category unless they meet specific empty-container rules.