Question 1

Is human tissue from embalming classified as regulated medical waste?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Human tissue, blood, and body fluid-contaminated materials from embalming and preparation procedures are classified as regulated biomedical waste under Florida Statute 381.0098 and must be collected by a licensed biomedical waste transporter. Regular trash disposal is prohibited.

Question 2

Is formaldehyde embalming fluid hazardous waste?

Accepted Answer

Formaldehyde is a P-listed RCRA acutely hazardous waste when discarded as a commercial chemical product (40 CFR 261.33). Spent embalming fluid containing formaldehyde may also be characteristically hazardous due to corrosivity or toxicity. Funeral homes should have their embalming waste evaluated by Exodus for proper RCRA classification.

Question 3

Can funeral homes pour embalming fluid down the drain?

Accepted Answer

This depends on formaldehyde concentration and local POTW permit limits. Many municipalities prohibit or strictly limit formaldehyde discharge. Funeral homes should check with their local POTW and consider licensed hazardous waste disposal — drain disposal of RCRA P-listed formaldehyde is prohibited.

Question 4

What OSHA requirements apply to funeral home workers?

Accepted Answer

OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogen Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) fully applies to funeral home embalmers and preparation room workers. Requirements include exposure control plans, annual BBP training, hepatitis B vaccination offer, and proper sharps and biohazardous waste containers. Exodus provides containers and training documentation.

Question 5

How long must funeral homes retain financial and family records?

Accepted Answer

Florida funeral home records retention requirements vary by document type — preneed contracts may have different requirements than at-need records. Consult Florida Statute 497 and the Florida Funeral, Cemetery & Consumer Services Board. Once retention periods expire, Exodus provides NAID-certified shredding with a Certificate of Destruction.

Funeral Home Regulated Waste Disposal Services