Which waste material is typically considered hazardous and should not be thrown in a regular waste bin?

The classification of hazardous waste is crucial for the safety of both medical staff and the environment. Contaminated sharps, such as needles and blades, are typically considered hazardous due to the risk of infection and injury they pose. These items can easily puncture skin and transmit diseases, making it essential that they are disposed of in designated sharps containers that are specially designed to contain such materials.

In contrast, old documents, plastic bottles, and metal cans do not carry the same level of risk. Old documents can be shredded or disposed of through regular recycling processes, while plastic bottles and metal cans are typically recyclable and do not pose any health hazards. Proper disposal procedures help to mitigate risks to health and safety, ensuring that potentially dangerous materials are handled correctly.