Illinois Medical Waste Compliance Guide
In Illinois, medical waste is called Potentially Infectious Medical Waste (PIMW), regulated under Title XV of the Illinois Environmental Protection Act. Standards adopted in 1993 govern the storage, treatment, transport, and disposal of PIMW to reduce occupational and environmental health risks.
Regulatory Agencies in Illinois
Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA)
Illinois Pollution Control Board (IPCB)
Compliance Requirements
| Requirement | Rule |
|---|---|
| Max Storage Time | PIMW must not be stored more than 72 hours unless kept at or below 45°F, and never more than 30 days regardless of temperature. |
| Producer Registration | Facilities performing off-site treatment, storage, or transfer of PIMW require an Illinois EPA permit. Treatment facilities generating more than 50 lbs/month must file an annual report by March 31. |
| Management Plan | A written operating record must be kept at the facility covering operating parameters, generator information, and waste quantities. A written contingency plan for emergencies must also be maintained on-site. |
| Labeling | Packages must display "BIOHAZARD", the International Biohazard Symbol, and "SHARPS" if applicable — readable at 5 feet on two opposite sides. Generator name, address, and phone must be attached on a water-resistant label in indelible ink. |
| Container Standards | All PIMW shipped off-site must be in rigid, leak-resistant, moisture-impervious containers sealed to prevent leakage. Sharps require puncture-resistant containers. Packages must not be compacted or subjected to stress that compromises integrity. |
| Authorized Haulers | Transporters must hold an Illinois EPA PIMW hauling permit ($2,000 annual fee plus $250 per vehicle), carry a completed PIMW manifest ($4.00 each), and pay a 3 cents/pound transportation fee. Transport must not exceed 10 days. |
| Employee Training | Annual personnel training is required for all staff before handling PIMW. Training must cover daily and emergency operating procedures. Records verifying training must be kept and made available to Illinois EPA upon request. |
| Shipment Records | Copies of all PIMW manifests must be kept at the facility for at least 3 years and made available to Illinois EPA upon request. Treatment facilities must certify to transporters and landfill operators that PIMW has been properly treated. |
Regulated Waste Types in Illinois
Quick Compliance Checklist
Segregate PIMW into Three Categories
Separate sharps, oversized PIMW, and all other PIMW at the point of generation.
Package Correctly for Transport
Use rigid, leak-resistant, sealed containers. Sharps require puncture-resistant containers. Never compact packages.
Label All Packages Properly
Mark "BIOHAZARD" and biohazard symbol on two opposite sides, readable at 5 feet. Attach water-resistant generator label in indelible ink.
Ensure Transporter Has Required Permits
Verify your hauler holds a valid Illinois EPA PIMW hauling permit and carries a completed manifest.
Maintain Storage Time Limits
Do not store PIMW beyond 72 hours unless refrigerated at 45°F or below — never beyond 30 days regardless.
Keep Manifests on File for 3 Years
Retain copies of all PIMW manifests at the facility and make available to Illinois EPA upon request.
Treat Before Landfill Disposal
Untreated PIMW is banned from all Illinois landfills. Sharps must also be rendered unrecognizable before disposal.
Official Resources & Forms
Not sure if your facility is compliant?
Talk to a licensed medical waste disposal consultant — free, no obligation.
This guide is for informational purposes only. Always verify current regulations directly with your state agency.
Cities We Service in Illinois
Professional medical waste services available in these Illinois cities and throughout the state: