International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development

Medical microbiology laboratories generate a substantial volume of biomedical waste due to routine handling of infectious clinical specimens, microbial cultures, sharps and contaminated laboratory disposables. If not managed properly, such waste poses serious occupational, environmental and public health risks, including laboratory-acquired infections and the spread of antimicrobial-resistant organisms. This paper examines the sources, categories and hazards of biomedical waste generated in medical microbiology laboratories and evaluates current waste management practices in accordance with prevailing biomedical waste management regulations and biosafety guidelines. Emphasis is placed on segregation at source, safe collection, on-site pre-treatment methods such as autoclaving and chemical disinfection and final disposal through authorized biomedical waste treatment facilities. The study also identifies key challenges including improper segregation, inadequate staff training and documentation gaps. A structured laboratory-level biomedical waste management framework is proposed to strengthen regulatory compliance, enhance biosafety and minimize environmental impact. Effective implementation of this framework can significantly improve infection control practices and ensure sustainable biomedical waste management in medical microbiology laboratories.

Aakriti Guleria,"Biomedical Waste Management in Medical Microbiology Laboratories: Practices, Challenges and Regulatory Compliance" International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development, V9(1): Page(2005-2014) Jan-Feb 2026. ISSN: 2581-7175. www.ijsred.com. Published by Scientific and Academic Research Publishing.