What do red label colors indicate in medical waste labeling?

Red label colors in medical waste labeling are used to indicate biohazardous waste. This classification is critical in healthcare settings because it helps ensure the safe handling and disposal of materials that may pose a risk of infection or contamination. Biohazardous waste includes items such as blood-soaked gauze, pathological waste, and any other materials that have come into contact with infectious agents.

Identifying waste accurately through color coding allows healthcare employees to follow proper disposal protocols, thereby minimizing the risk of exposure to pathogens for both healthcare workers and the public. Regular garbage disposal, chemical waste, and infectious waste have different labeling systems, highlighting the importance of specific and standardized labeling to manage waste safely and effectively in healthcare environments.