According to Biomedical Waste Management Rules 2016 of Government of India, which coloured plastic bags should be used for discarded and contaminated metal sharps such as needle, syringes, scalpels, blades etc ?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (d).

Introduction

Under the Biomedical Waste Management Rules of 2016 issued by the Government of India, all contaminated metal sharps, including needles, scalpels, and blades, must be disposed of exclusively in White (translucent) puncture-proof, leak-proof, and tamper-proof containers to prevent occupational injuries and cross-infection.

Information Booster

The White container category is strictly reserved for sharps to ensure the safety of healthcare workers and sanitation staff from accidental pricks.
These containers must be highly durable to withstand the cutting edges of surgical blades and syringe needles.
Once ¾ full, these containers are sealed and sent for dry heat sterilization or autoclaving followed by shredding or encapsulation.
The 2016 rules simplified the color-coding system into four main categories: Yellow, Red, White, and Blue to streamline segregation at the source.
Proper segregation at the source is legally mandated to minimize the volume of hazardous waste requiring specialized treatment.

Additional Knowledge

Red colored non-chlorinated plastic bags are designated for contaminated recyclable waste, primarily plastics like IV tubes, catheters, and syringes (without needles).
Yellow colored bags are used for human anatomical waste, animal waste, soiled waste (cotton swabs with blood), and expired medicines, which are destined for deep burial or incineration.
Blue cardboard boxes or containers are used specifically for broken or discarded glassware and metallic body implants.