Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal Guidelines

Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal
Made Easy and Compliant

Proper management and disposal of pharmaceutical waste is critical to ensuring compliance with Florida regulations and maintaining a safe healthcare environment. Following the correct procedures protects your staff, patients, and community, while also helping your facility avoid costly violations. Here’s how to properly handle your pharmaceutical waste step-by-step:

Step 1:

Proper Containers and Labeling

A researcher is holding a clear plastic bag with biohazard logo

(Florida Administrative Code 64E-16)

  • Use approved WHITE/BLUE color-coded containers specifically designed for non-RCRA pharmaceutical waste.
  • Label each container clearly with your facility’s name, address, and phone number before use.
  • As required by Florida regulations, ensure that all containers are marked with “HIGH HEAT” or “INCINERATION ONLY” on both the lid and sides.

Step 2:

Secure Storage

Medical Waste with Empty Blister Medicines Capsules and Tablets

(Florida Administrative Code 64E-16.004)

  • Store new pharmaceutical waste containers in a locked area or under direct supervision to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Immediately dispose of any qualified pharmaceutical waste into the container after use. Continue until contents reach the marked “FULL” line.

 

Step 3:

Designated Accumulation Area

Container for pharmaceutical waste in the hospital ward

(Florida Statute 381.0098)

  • Once full, close the lid securely using locking tabs and tape for added safety.
  • Place full pharmaceutical containers next to (not inside) the Regulated Medical Waste (RMW) container for pickup.
  • Note: Pharmaceutical containers may also serve as sharps containers for syringes that contain residual pharmaceutical liquids—as long as the needle remains attached. Do not place loose needles in pharmaceutical waste containers.

Step 4:

Scheduled Medical Waste Service

Woman signs on a tablet for delivery of pharmaceutical waste disposal containers

(Florida Statute 403.7226)

  • On your scheduled pickup day, All Points Medical Waste will perform a one-for-one exchange of your full WHITE/BLUE pharmaceutical waste container, provided it’s placed next to your medical waste container and clearly marked as ready for disposal.
  • Any remaining pharmaceutical waste not in the container at the time of pickup will be collected during your next scheduled service.

 

By following these steps, your facility stays in full compliance with Florida law while maintaining a safe, efficient pharmaceutical waste disposal system.

Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal
Services in Florida

Expert Pharmaceutical Waste Management for Healthcare Facilities Across Florida

At All Points Medical Waste, we understand the critical importance of proper pharmaceutical waste disposal. Whether you operate a hospital, clinic, pharmacy, nursing home, or veterinary practice, managing unused, expired, or hazardous medications correctly is essential for protecting public health, maintaining regulatory compliance, and safeguarding the environment.

As a trusted, woman-owned, Florida-based company, All Points Medical Waste specializes in secure, compliant pharmaceutical waste disposal services tailored to meet the needs of healthcare providers throughout the state.

What Is Pharmaceutical Waste?

At All Points Medical Waste, we understand the critical importance of proper pharmaceutical waste disposal. Whether you operate a hospital, clinic, pharmacy, nursing home, or veterinary practice, managing unused, expired, or hazardous medications correctly is essential for protecting public health, maintaining regulatory compliance, and safeguarding the environment.

As a trusted, woman-owned, Florida-based company, All Points Medical Waste specializes in secure, compliant pharmaceutical waste disposal services tailored to meet the needs of healthcare providers throughout the state.

  • Expired medications

  • Partially used doses

  • Contaminated pharmaceuticals

  • Items requiring disposal after a drug recall

Improper disposal of pharmaceutical waste can lead to:

  • Environmental pollution (such as water contamination)

  • Regulatory violations and heavy fines

  • Risks to public health and worker safety

Proper segregation, storage, and disposal are critical steps in responsible waste management.

Types of Pharmaceutical Waste We Handle

At All Points Medical Waste, we manage a wide range of pharmaceutical waste, including:

  • Non-RCRA Pharmaceutical Waste

    • Medications that are not considered hazardous under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).

  • RCRA Hazardous Pharmaceutical Waste

    • Medications that are flammable, toxic, reactive, or corrosive and require special handling.

Whether your facility generates a few containers per month or a high volume of pharmaceutical waste, we can design a disposal solution to meet your needs.

Our Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal Process

Our easy-to-follow process ensures full compliance with Florida regulations and federal laws:

1. Proper Containers and Labeling
  • We provide WHITE/BLUE color-coded pharmaceutical waste containers for non-RCRA waste.
  • Containers are labeled with your facility name, address, phone number, and "HIGH HEAT" or "INCINERATION ONLY" labels, as required.
2. Secure Storage
  • Containers must be stored in a locked area or under direct supervision to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Qualified pharmaceutical waste is placed directly into the container until full.
3. Safe Accumulation and Pickup Preparation
  • Full containers are sealed and secured.
  • Pharmaceutical waste containers are placed next to regulated medical waste (RMW) containers before your scheduled pickup day.
  • We accept pharmaceutical sharps (e.g., syringes with residual medication) if needles are attached.
4. Scheduled Pickup and Waste Exchange
  • On your scheduled service day, our professional team performs a one-for-one exchange of full pharmaceutical waste containers.
  • Any waste not ready at pickup will be collected during your next service visit.

Why Proper Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal Matters

Failing to properly dispose of pharmaceutical waste can result in significant consequences, including:

  • Violations of Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Department of Health regulations
  • Fines from OSHA or EPA inspections
  • Risks of accidental poisoning
  • Negative impacts on your facility’s reputation and accreditation

Partnering with All Points Medical Waste ensures your facility stays compliant, secure, and protected.

Why Funeral Homes
Choose All Points Medical Waste

Simple Solutions. Reliable Service. No Hassle.

We are deeply familiar with Florida’s specific medical and pharmaceutical waste regulations.

Our commitment to service, compliance, and community sets us apart.

No hidden fees or surprise charges.

On-time pickups, friendly service, and professional support every step of the way.

We offer pharmaceutical waste, sharps disposal, red bag waste services, HIPAA-compliant document shredding, and electronics destruction—all under one roof.

Who We Serve

Our pharmaceutical waste disposal services are trusted by:

  • Hospitals and surgical centers
  • Urgent care clinics
  • Nursing homes and assisted living facilities
  • Pharmacies
  • Laboratories and research centers
  • Veterinary clinics
  • Hospice and home healthcare providers

No matter your size or specialty, we provide customized solutions to fit your needs.

Request a Free Quote Today

If you’re looking for reliable, compliant, and secure pharmaceutical waste disposal services in Florida, trust the experts at All Points Medical Waste. Contact us today for a free consultation and customized quote.

Secure. Compliant. Local. Woman-Owned.
All Points Medical Waste — Your Partner for Safe Pharmaceutical Waste Management.

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