What disposal principle starts proper disposal by separating hazardous waste at the point of generation, typically using color-coded containers?

• A. Incineration
• B. Segregation
• C. Autoclave
• D. General medical waste

Answer: (B)

Segregation from the moment waste is generated means separating hazardous waste from other waste right at the source. In healthcare, this is done by placing items into color-coded containers so infectious, chemical, sharps, and general waste stay in their respective streams. This approach is essential because it ensures each waste type is handled, stored, transported, and treated with the appropriate precautions from the start, reducing exposure risk to staff and the environment and streamlining downstream processing. The color-coding serves as a clear, visual cue to guide proper disposal paths, making correct separation easier even in busy settings.

Incineration and autoclaving are treatment methods used after segregation, not the principle of separating waste at the point of generation. General medical waste is a category of waste, not the disposal principle.