Certified Medical Assistant Practice Exam

How should biohazardous waste be collected according to standards?

1. Green bags

2. Blue bags

3. Yellow bags

4. Red bags

The correct answer is: Red bags

The correct answer is red bags. Biohazardous waste, which includes materials that may be contaminated with infectious agents, must be collected and disposed of in a manner that prevents exposure to those hazards. Standards typically dictate the use of red bags specifically designed for this type of waste. Red bags are visually distinctive and signal to all personnel that the contents are biohazardous, ensuring that the waste is handled properly throughout its lifecycle—from collection, storage, to final disposal. These bags are often made of materials that are resistant to tearing and leaking, providing an additional layer of safety. Using other colors, such as green or blue, does not meet the established guidelines for proper biohazard waste disposal, and could lead to confusion regarding the safe handling of potentially infectious materials.