What type of waste includes broken glassware?

Broken glassware falls under the category of sharps. This classification is based on the potential risk of injury and the need for special handling procedures associated with items that can pierce the skin. Sharps waste includes any items that can cause cuts or punctures, such as needles, blades, and broken glass, which pose a significant safety hazard in health care settings.

Proper disposal of sharps is essential to prevent injuries and the potential transmission of infectious diseases. Typically, these items must be placed in puncture-proof containers specifically designed for sharps disposal to ensure safe handling and minimize risks to waste management personnel and others who may come in contact with the waste.

In contrast, pharmaceutical waste refers to expired, unused, or contaminated medications; chemical waste includes hazardous substances that must be treated with particular care; and non-hazardous/general waste encompasses common trash that does not pose any special health threats. Each of these categories has its handling and disposal protocols that differ from those applicable to sharps like broken glassware.