Red Bag Container Setup & Packaging Guide
Preparing Your Waste For Pickup

Step 1
Line your corrugated or poly container with the supplied red liner prior to use. Check the containers markings to ensure you are complying with state and federal regulations. Ensure that markings (biohazard symbol, this-side-up-arrows, regulated medical waste, N.O.S., and UN number) are present. If unsure of your state regulations, check with your local Secure Stream representative.

Step 2
Each bag must be tied shut when container is full. DO NOT OVERFILL CONTAINER. It is recommended customers use a gooseneck knot to close red bag to ensure a leak proof seal (see image). Red bags bearing visible damage and/or evidence of leakage must be over packed within an intact red bag.

Step 3
For poly containers, place the lid securely on the container. For corrugated containers, confirm all openings are securely sealed closed with tape. Red bags must not be visible once the container is closed. Ensure that no bags are leaking before sealing them inside a corrugated container. Double bag as needed to ensure compliance.

Step 4
Stage and store regulated medical waste for pickup in areas which are not readily accessible to the general public. Be sure to limit access to collection and storage areas to only to authorized employees maintaining the integrity of the packaging and providing protection from the elements and wildlife. It also must be easily accessible to the Secure Stream driver in order to do the pickup.
What Belongs In The Red Bag
Waste With Blood or OPIM
Gauze, bandages, and dressings saturated with blood or OPIM are acceptable.
Used PPE
Used surgical gloves, gowns, masks, and other forms of disposable PPE are acceptable.
Consumables & Biohazards
Plastic tubing, pipettes, and culture dishes containing biohazards are acceptable. Do not include glass.
Sharps Containers
Sealed, puncture-resistant sharps containers may be placed inside the Red Bag once they are full.
These Items Are NOT ALLOWED In The Red Bag
Loose Sharps
Needles, scalpels, and lancets must go in rigid sharps containers first.
Free Liquids
Bulk liquids must be solidified prior to packaging.
Regular Trash
Don't include paper towels, food waste, wrappers, or packaging material.
Chemicals or Rx
Don't include hazardous chemical waste, mercury, or unused pharmaceuticals.
Compliance & Safety Reminders
50 lb Weight Limit
Containers must never exceed 50 lbs to protect transit drivers and comply with DOT regulations.
OSHA Biohazard Labeling
The universal biohazard symbol and "Biohazard" text must remain clearly visible on the outside of the sealed container at all times.
Proper PPE Attire
Always wear gloves, eye protection, and protective gowns when sealing or moving full biohazard containers.