Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC) Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Guide for Exam Success

Segregation of biohazardous waste from general waste is a key infection control principle because it minimizes the risk of exposure to infectious materials for healthcare workers, patients, and the environment. Proper segregation ensures that biohazardous waste, which includes items like sharps, contaminated linens, and infectious materials, is kept separate from non-hazardous waste. This practice reduces the risk of cross-contamination and makes it easier to manage waste safely.

By differentiating biohazardous waste, healthcare facilities can implement appropriate disposal methods specific to that type of waste. For example, biohazardous materials may be treated through incineration or autoclaving, while general waste may be disposed of through standard municipal waste processes. This careful approach is crucial for maintaining a safe healthcare environment and for adherence to regulatory guidelines related to waste management and infection control.

Other methods of disposal, such as combining waste or recycling all materials, do not address the specific dangers associated with biohazardous waste and could lead to increased risk of infection. Hence, segregation stands out as a fundamental principle in infection control pertaining to waste management in healthcare settings.