Last year in Korea, we experienced serious infectious disease, MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) and recognition on medical waste has been increased throughout the period of outbreak.  Last month, Ministry of Environment released the revised the Waste Control Act that additionally included special treatment for medical waste.  Medical waste may be categorized into human anatomical wastes, pathological waste, microbiological wastes and any sharp tools such as needles and scalpel blades.

Anatomical wastes are human organs, tissue and body parts removed by trauma, during surgery, autopsy, birth, research studies, or another hospital procedure, and which are intended for disposal. Pathological waste refers to small tissues sections and body material derived from biopsies or surgical procedures that are then tested in the lab. Microbiological wastes are cultures and stocks of infectious agents, and associated microorganisms and biological which are usually generated by the healthcare organization?s labs.