Mississippi Waste Management Regulations: Complete Compliance Guide for Businesses & Healthcare

Table of Contents

1. Mississippi Waste Management Overview

2. Regulatory Agencies: MDEQ vs MSDH

3. Hazardous Waste Regulations & Generator Classifications

4. Medical & Infectious Waste Requirements

5. Solid Waste & Recycling Compliance

6. E-Waste Disposal Rules

7. Professional Waste Management Services

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Mississippi Waste Management Regulations: What You Need to Know

Quick Answer: Mississippi waste management is regulated by two primary agencies: the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) for hazardous and solid waste, and the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) for medical and infectious waste.

For businesses, medical facilities, and industrial operators in Mississippi, compliance with waste management regulations is both a legal requirement and an environmental responsibility. The Magnolia State maintains rigorous standards to protect public health and preserve Mississippi's diverse ecosystems.

Who Needs to Follow These Regulations?

Healthcare Providers:

• Hospitals and medical centers

• Dental clinics and oral surgery practices

• Veterinary hospitals

• Clinical laboratories

• Nursing homes and assisted living facilities

• Medical and dental offices

Business & Industrial Operators:

• Manufacturing facilities

• Chemical plants

• Research laboratories

• Auto repair shops

• Dry cleaners

• Print shops and photo labs

Penalties for Non-Compliance:

• Fines ranging from $1,000 to $25,000 per violation per day

• Potential facility shutdown

• Criminal charges for serious violations

• Loss of operating permits

• Liability for environmental cleanup costs

Mississippi Regulatory Agencies: MDEQ vs MSDH

Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ)

What They Regulate:

• Solid waste management and landfills

• Hazardous waste disposal

• Recycling programs

• Industrial waste

• E-waste (electronic waste)

• Air and water quality

MDEQ Responsibilities:

• Issuing permits for waste facilities

• Monitoring compliance with state and federal laws

• Enforcing the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)

• Conducting facility inspections

• Imposing penalties for violations

Contact MDEQ:

• Website: mdeq.ms.gov

• Phone: (601) 961-5171

• Address: 515 E Amite St, Jackson, MS 39201

Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH)

What They Regulate:

• Medical waste (infectious waste)

• Biomedical waste from healthcare facilities

• Sharps disposal

• Pathological waste

• Blood and blood products

MSDH Responsibilities:

• Setting medical waste handling standards

• Licensing medical waste treatment facilities

• Inspecting healthcare facilities

• Investigating complaints

• Providing guidance on infectious waste management

Contact MSDH:

• Website: msdh.ms.gov

• Phone: (601) 576-7400

• Address: 570 E Woodrow Wilson Dr, Jackson, MS 39216

Mississippi Hazardous Waste Regulations

What is hazardous waste?

Hazardous waste is any waste material that poses substantial or potential threats to public health or the environment. Mississippi follows federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) guidelines, implemented at the state level by MDEQ.

Four Characteristics of Hazardous Waste

1. Ignitability (D001): Liquids with flash point below 140°F, gases, oxidizers

2. Corrosivity (D002): pH ≤2 or ≥12.5, corrodes steel at specific rates

3. Reactivity (D003): Unstable, explosive, generates toxic gases

4. Toxicity (D004-D043): Contains harmful levels of specific chemicals

Mississippi Hazardous Waste Generator Classifications

Mississippi classifies generators based on monthly hazardous waste production:

Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQG)

Volume: Less than 100 kg (220 lbs) per month

Requirements:

• Identify and manage waste properly

• Send waste to permitted facility or universal waste handler

• No EPA ID number required (but recommended)

• No formal training requirements

• No specific storage time limits

Common Examples:

• Small dental offices

• Auto body shops

• Small print shops

• Photography studios

Small Quantity Generators (SQG)

Volume: 100 kg to 1,000 kg (220-2,200 lbs) per month

Requirements:

• Obtain EPA ID number (required)

• Store waste on-site for maximum 180 days (270 days if >200 miles from disposal facility)

• Label containers with "Hazardous Waste" and accumulation start date

• Conduct annual employee training

• Maintain emergency preparedness plan

• Use licensed hazardous waste transporter

• Complete waste manifests

Common Examples:

• Medium-sized medical clinics

• Veterinary hospitals

• Dry cleaning facilities

• Manufacturing plants

Large Quantity Generators (LQG)

Volume: More than 1,000 kg (2,200 lbs) per month

Requirements:

• Obtain EPA ID number (required)

• Store waste on-site for maximum 90 days

• Weekly container inspections documented

• Formal written training program for employees

• Comprehensive emergency preparedness and prevention plan

• Contingency plan filed with local emergency responders

• Biennial hazardous waste report to EPA

• Personnel trained within 6 months of hire

Common Examples:

• Large hospitals

• Chemical manufacturing plants

• Large industrial facilities

• Research universities

Common Mississippi Hazardous Waste Violations

Top 5 Violations Leading to Fines:

1. Misclassifying generator status (40% of violations)

2. Improper storage time limits exceeded (25% of violations)

3. Inadequate employee training documentation (15% of violations)

4. Missing or incorrect container labels (12% of violations)

5. Failure to use licensed transporter (8% of violations)

Mississippi Hazardous Waste Manifest System

What is a manifest?

A manifest is a shipping document that tracks hazardous waste from "cradle to grave" – from generation through transportation to final disposal.

Manifest Requirements:

• Generator information and EPA ID number

• Waste description and quantity

• Transporter information and license number

• Designated treatment/disposal facility

• Generator signature certifying proper classification

• All parties must sign and retain copies

Record Retention:

• Generators must keep manifests for 3 years

• Final signed copy proves legal disposal

• Critical for regulatory audits and compliance verification

Mississippi Medical & Infectious Waste Management

What is medical waste in Mississippi?

Medical waste (also called infectious waste or biomedical waste) is any solid waste generated in the diagnosis, treatment, or immunization of humans or animals that may contain pathogens.

Categories of Medical Waste in Mississippi

1. Cultures and Stocks

• Infectious agents from research and clinical labs

• Live and attenuated vaccines

• Culture dishes and devices used to transfer cultures

2. Human Blood and Blood Products

• Liquid blood and blood products

• Items saturated with blood

• Items caked with dried blood

3. Pathological Waste

• Human tissues, organs, and body parts

• Surgical specimens

• Anatomical remains

4. Sharps

• Hypodermic needles and syringes

• Scalpel blades and surgical instruments

• Broken glass from medical settings

• Any item that can puncture skin

5. Animal Waste

• Carcasses and body parts exposed to infectious agents

• Bedding from infected animals

Mississippi Medical Waste Requirements

1. Segregation at Point of Origin

MSDH Requirement: Infectious waste must be separated from general trash immediately upon generation.

Best Practices:

• Use color-coded systems (red bags for infectious waste)

• Place sharps containers at point of use

• Train all staff on proper segregation

• Never mix medical waste with regular trash

• Conduct regular waste audits to ensure compliance

Common Segregation Errors:

• Empty IV bags in infectious waste (should be regular trash)

• Non-contaminated packaging in red bags

• Paper towels from handwashing in biohazard containers

2. Packaging and Labeling Requirements

Container Specifications:

For Sharps:

• Rigid, puncture-resistant containers

• Leak-proof sides and bottom

• Closable with tight-fitting lid

• Red color or labeled with biohazard symbol

• Fill only to fill line (typically 3/4 full)

• Never overfill or force items in

For Other Medical Waste:

• Red biohazard bags (minimum 3.0 mil thickness)

• Securely tied or sealed

• Double-bagging required if outer bag contaminated

• Placed in rigid containers for transport

Labeling Requirements:

• Universal biohazard symbol (orange/red background)

• Word "BIOHAZARD" clearly visible

• Generator name and address (for off-site transport)

• Accumulation start date

• Weight or volume estimate

3. Storage Requirements

Temperature and Duration:

• Under 24 hours: Can be stored at room temperature in secure area

• 24-72 hours: Must refrigerate at 32-45°F to prevent odor and bacterial growth

• Over 72 hours: Requires refrigeration and enhanced security measures

Storage Location Requirements:

• Locked or restricted access area

• Separate from food, medications, and clean supplies

• Adequate ventilation

• Leak-proof flooring

• Posted with biohazard warning signs

• Away from public areas

Storage Violations & Fines:

• Storage near public areas: $500-$2,500 per occurrence

• Inadequate temperature control: $1,000-$5,000

• Unlabeled or improperly stored waste: $500-$2,000

4. Treatment and Disposal Methods

MSDH-Approved Treatment Methods:

Steam Sterilization (Autoclave):

• The most common method for Mississippi healthcare facilities

• Minimum 250°F at 15 psi for 30-60 minutes

• Validates pathogen destruction

• Renders waste unrecognizable before landfilling

Incineration:

• High-temperature burning (1,800-2,000°F)

• Used for pathological and pharmaceutical waste

• Reduces volume by 90%+

• Requires air quality permits

Chemical Disinfection:

• Approved for certain waste types

• Must demonstrate 6-log reduction of bacteria

• Less common in Mississippi

Microwave Treatment:

• Emerging technology

• Requires MSDH approval

• Shreds and heats waste simultaneously

After Treatment:

• Waste must be rendered "non-infectious"

• Can then be disposed in sanitary landfill

• Documentation required showing treatment completion

5. Transportation Requirements

Mississippi Medical Waste Transporter Rules:

• Must be licensed by MSDH

• Vehicles must display "Medical Waste" placards

• Manifest required for each shipment

• Spill cleanup kit required in vehicle

• Driver training on emergency procedures

Generator Responsibilities:

• Use only licensed transporters

• Provide accurate manifest information

• Receive signed copy as proof of legal disposal

• Keep manifests for minimum 3 years

Mississippi Solid Waste & Recycling Regulations

County Solid Waste Management Plans

MDEQ Requirement: Every Mississippi county must maintain a current Solid Waste Management Plan that addresses:

• Municipal solid waste (MSW) collection and disposal

• Recycling programs and goals

• Litter prevention initiatives

• Public education campaigns

• Future waste management needs

Business Waste Minimization Programs

Benefits of Waste Reduction:

• Lower disposal costs (average savings: 20-30%)

• Reduced regulatory burden

• Improved environmental compliance

• Enhanced corporate sustainability image

• Potential tax incentives

MDEQ Pollution Prevention (P2) Strategies:

Source Reduction:

• Purchase products with less packaging

• Buy in bulk to reduce container waste

• Choose reusable over disposable items

• Implement paperless systems

Reuse Programs:

• Donate usable equipment and materials

• Repurpose packaging materials

• Establish internal supply exchange

Recycling Initiatives:

• Paper, cardboard, and office waste

• Metal, glass, and plastic containers

• Pallets and wood waste

• Used oil and antifreeze

MDEQ Resources:

• Free waste audit assistance for businesses

• Technical guidance on P2 implementation

• Recognition programs for waste reduction achievements

• Grants for recycling infrastructure

Mississippi Recycling Requirements

Mandatory Recycling (for certain entities):

• State agencies and institutions

• Public universities

• K-12 schools (recommended)

Commonly Recycled Materials in Mississippi:

• Cardboard and paper products

• Aluminum and steel cans

• Plastic bottles

• Glass containers

• Scrap metal

Finding Recycling Services:

• MDEQ maintains a directory of certified recyclers

• County recycling programs vary by location

• Private haulers are available in most areas

Mississippi E-Waste Disposal Regulations

What is E-waste?

Electronic waste (e-waste) includes discarded electronic devices and components that often contain hazardous materials like lead, mercury, cadmium, and flame retardants.

Common E-Waste Items

Prohibited from Regular Trash:

• Computers and laptops

• Monitors and televisions

• Printers and copiers

• Cell phones and tablets

• Circuit boards and batteries

• Fluorescent bulbs and CFLs

Why E-Waste is Hazardous:

• Lead in CRT monitors and circuit boards

• Mercury in LCD screens and fluorescent backlights

• Cadmium in batteries and semiconductors

• Brominated flame retardants in plastic casings

Mississippi E-Waste Disposal Options

MDEQ-Certified Recyclers:

• Must be certified to handle e-waste properly

• Extract valuable materials (gold, silver, copper)

• Safely dispose of hazardous components

• Provide certificates of recycling

E-Waste Collection Events:

• Counties host periodic collection days

• Free drop-off for residents

• Businesses may have fees based on volume

• Check MDEQ website for schedule

Retailer Take-Back Programs:

• Best Buy: Accepts most electronics

• Staples: Accepts batteries and small devices

• Apple: Recycles Apple products

• Dell: Mail-back program for computers

Data Security Considerations:

• Wipe hard drives before disposal

• Use certified data destruction services

• Remove SIM cards and memory cards

• Consider physical hard drive destruction

E-Waste Compliance for Businesses

Best Practices:

• Establish e-waste management policy

• Train employees on proper disposal

• Track e-waste generation and disposal

• Use only certified recyclers

• Maintain disposal records for 3 years

Common Violations:

• Dumping monitors/TVs in regular dumpsters: $500-$2,500 fine

• Improper battery disposal: $250-$1,000 fine

• No documentation of proper disposal: $500-$2,000 fine

Why Professional Waste Management Services Matter

The Compliance Challenge

Navigating Mississippi's waste management regulations requires expertise in:

• MDEQ solid and hazardous waste rules

• MSDH medical waste requirements

• Federal RCRA and OSHA standards

• Local ordinances and permits

• Constantly changing regulations

Average Time Spent on Compliance:

• Small healthcare facility: 10-15 hours/month

• Medium facility: 20-30 hours/month

• Large facility: 40+ hours/month

Benefits of Professional Waste Management Services

1. Compliance Assurance

• Expert knowledge of MDEQ and MSDH regulations

• Stay updated on legislative changes

• Proper generator classification

• Accurate manifesting and documentation

• Audit preparation and support

2. Safety & Risk Reduction

• Proper handling reduces workplace injuries by 60%

• OSHA-compliant procedures

• Employee training programs

• Spill response protocols

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) guidance

3. Cost Savings

• Optimize waste classification to reduce fees

• Right-size container quantities

• Avoid regulatory fines and penalties

• Reduce liability insurance costs

• Minimize staff time on waste management

4. Documentation & Legal Protection

• Complete manifest tracking system

• Certificates of destruction/disposal

• Compliance reports for audits

• 3-year record retention

• Legal defense support if questioned

5. Environmental Stewardship

• Maximize recycling and waste diversion

• Reduce environmental footprint

• Sustainability reporting metrics

• Community reputation enhancement

What to Look for in a Mississippi Waste Management Provider

Essential Qualifications:

• ✅ Licensed by MSDH (for medical waste)

• ✅ EPA ID number and permits

• ✅ Proof of liability insurance

• ✅ OSHA-trained staff

• ✅ 24/7 emergency response capability

• ✅ Mississippi-based operations for fast response

Service Capabilities:

• Multiple treatment methods (autoclave, incineration)

• Hazardous waste handling

• Sharps mail-back programs

• On-site training for staff

• Customized service schedules

• Online tracking and reporting

Red Flags to Avoid:

• ❌ No visible licensing or permits

• ❌ Significantly lower prices than competitors (may cut corners)

• ❌ No proof of insurance

• ❌ Unwilling to provide references

• ❌ No written service agreements

• ❌ Poor customer service or responsiveness

SD Med Waste: Mississippi's Trusted Waste Management Partner

Why Mississippi Businesses Choose SD Med Waste:

• Deep understanding of MDEQ and MSDH regulations

• Comprehensive service for all waste types

• Local expertise with statewide coverage

• Responsive customer support

• Competitive pricing with no hidden fees

• Proven track record of compliance

Service Areas:

• Medical and infectious waste disposal

• Sharps container programs

• Hazardous waste management

• OSHA compliance training

• E-waste recycling coordination

• Pharmaceutical waste disposal

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What qualifies as medical waste in Mississippi?

Answer: In Mississippi, medical waste (also called infectious waste) is regulated by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) and includes:

Five Primary Categories:

1. Cultures and stocks of infectious agents - Laboratory specimens, vaccines, and culture dishes

2. Human blood and blood products - Liquid blood, blood-saturated items, and items caked with dried blood

3. Pathological waste - Human tissues, organs, body parts, and surgical specimens

4. Sharps - Needles, syringes, scalpel blades, broken glass, and any items that can puncture skin

5. Animal waste - Carcasses, body parts, and bedding from animals exposed to infectious agents

What is NOT medical waste:

• Empty IV bags (unless contaminated with blood)

• Unused medications (regulated separately as pharmaceutical waste)

• Diapers from non-infectious patients

• Paper towels from handwashing

• Packaging materials

Key Point: The defining factor is whether the waste contains or is reasonably expected to contain pathogens in sufficient concentration to cause disease. When in doubt, consult MSDH guidelines or a licensed waste management provider.

2. How do I dispose of hazardous chemicals in Mississippi?

Answer: Hazardous chemical disposal in Mississippi is managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) and requires following these steps:

Step 1: Determine Your Generator Status

Calculate monthly hazardous waste generation:

• Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG): Less than 100 kg/month

• Small Quantity Generator (SQG): 100-1,000 kg/month

• Large Quantity Generator (LQG): More than 1,000 kg/month

Step 2: Obtain Required Permits

• SQGs and LQGs must obtain EPA ID number

• Apply through MDEQ or EPA website

• VSQGs recommended to get ID number (not required)

Step 3: Properly Store Waste

• Label containers with "Hazardous Waste" and accumulation date

• Store in compatible containers (no reactive combinations)

• Follow time limits: 90 days (LQG), 180/270 days (SQG)

• Keep containers closed except when adding waste

Step 4: Use Licensed Transporter

• Only use MDEQ-permitted hazardous waste transporters

• Obtain list from MDEQ website or call (601) 961-5171

• Never transport hazardous waste yourself without proper permits

Step 5: Complete Waste Manifest

• Fill out Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest

• Track waste to designated Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facility (TSDF)

• Retain signed copy for 3 years

Step 6: Send to Permitted Facility

• Use only EPA-permitted TSDFs

• Verify facility accepts your specific waste type

• Confirm proper disposal method

Common Mississippi Hazardous Chemicals:

• Laboratory chemicals and reagents

• Used solvents and degreasers

• Photographic chemicals

• Waste oils and antifreeze

• Paint and paint thinners

• Pesticides and herbicides

For assistance: Contact MDEQ's Hazardous Waste Division at (601) 961-5171 or visit mdeq.ms.gov.

3. Are there specific rules for sharps disposal in Mississippi?

Answer: Yes, Mississippi has strict sharps disposal requirements enforced by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH).

Required Sharps Container Specifications:

Physical Requirements:

• ✅ Rigid construction (hard plastic, not cardboard)

• ✅ Puncture-resistant on all sides

• ✅ Leak-proof sides and bottom

• ✅ Closable with secure, tight-fitting lid

• ✅ Red color OR labeled with biohazard symbol

• ✅ Clearly marked "SHARPS" or "BIOHAZARD"

Filling Guidelines:

• Fill only to manufacturer's fill line (typically 3/4 full)

• NEVER overfill containers

• Do not shake or compact sharps down

• Replace when fill line is reached

What Goes in Sharps Containers:

• Hypodermic needles and syringes

• Suture needles

• Scalpel blades

• Lancets and blood collection needles

• Razors from medical procedures

• Broken glass from medical settings (slides, vials)

Storage Requirements:

• Place containers at point of use

• Mount on walls or place on stable surfaces

• Keep out of reach of children and public

• Store in secure area when full

• Do not store full containers longer than 30 days

Disposal Process:

1. Seal container when full (lid must lock securely)

2. Label with facility name and date sealed

3. Store in designated medical waste area

4. Arrange pickup by MSDH-licensed transporter

5. Receive manifest as proof of proper disposal

ILLEGAL Sharps Disposal Methods:

• ❌ Throwing loose needles in regular trash

• ❌ Flushing down toilets or drains

• ❌ Disposing in recycling bins

• ❌ Recapping needles before disposal

• ❌ Using cardboard boxes or plastic bottles (at healthcare facilities)

Home Healthcare Sharps:

• Patients can use FDA-cleared sharps containers

• Some pharmacies offer sharps mail-back programs

• Check with county for household sharps collection programs

Penalties for Violations:

• Improper sharps disposal: $500-$5,000 per occurrence

• Endangerment from needle sticks: $2,500-$10,000

• Repeat violations: Facility closure possible

Resources:

• MSDH Sharps Guidelines: msdh.ms.gov

• Find licensed sharps disposal services: Contact MSDH at (601) 576-7400

4. Does Mississippi require a manifest for waste transport?

Answer: Yes, Mississippi requires manifests for certain types of waste transport to ensure "cradle-to-grave" tracking.

Waste Types Requiring Manifests:

1. Hazardous Waste (MDEQ Requirement):

• Who: Small Quantity Generators (SQG) and Large Quantity Generators (LQG)

• Document: EPA Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest (Form 8700-22)

• Purpose: Track waste from generation through transportation to final disposal

• Copies: Generator, transporter, and receiving facility each retain signed copy

Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQG):

• Not required to use manifests in most cases

• Should obtain receipt from disposal facility

• Recommended to use manifests for liability protection

2. Medical/Infectious Waste (MSDH Requirement):

• Required for: Off-site transport to treatment facilities

• Document: MSDH Medical Waste Tracking Form (or equivalent)

• Information Required:

• 
  

  • Generator name, address, and phone

  • Waste type and quantity

  • Transporter information and license number

  • Treatment facility name and address

  • Date of pickup

  • Signatures from generator and transporter

3. When Manifests Are NOT Required:

• On-site waste movement within same facility

• General municipal solid waste

• Non-hazardous recyclables

• Very small quantity hazardous waste (if under 100 kg/month)

Manifest Process in Mississippi:

Step 1: Generator Responsibilities

• Complete manifest before waste leaves property

• Accurately describe waste type and quantity

• Sign certifying proper classification

• Provide copies to transporter

• Retain copy for records (3 years minimum)

Step 2: Transporter Responsibilities

• Verify manifest information

• Sign acknowledging receipt of waste

• Transport directly to designated facility

• Deliver waste and manifest to receiving facility

• Provide signed copy back to generator

Step 3: Receiving Facility Responsibilities

• Verify waste matches manifest description

• Sign acknowledging receipt

• Return signed copy to generator within 30 days

• Report any discrepancies to MDEQ/MSDH

Step 4: Generator Verification

• Receive signed manifest copy

• Verify waste reached intended destination

• File for future audits

• Report any missing manifests to MDEQ within 45 days

Why Manifests Matter:

• Legal proof of proper disposal

• Protects against liability if waste mishandled

• Required for regulatory audits

• Demonstrates due diligence

• Tracks waste movement for environmental protection

Electronic Manifests (e-Manifests):

• EPA now offers electronic manifest system

• Reduces paperwork and errors

• Faster processing and notification

• Optional but recommended

Record Retention:

• Keep all manifests for minimum 3 years

• 5 years recommended for extra protection

• Store in secure, organized filing system

• Make copies available for inspections

Penalties for Manifest Violations:

• Missing manifests: $1,000-$5,000 per occurrence

• Incomplete information: $500-$2,500

• Failure to report discrepancies: $1,000-$7,500

• Using unlicensed transporter: $2,500-$10,000

5. Where can I find the official Mississippi waste management rules?

Answer: Mississippi waste management regulations are available from two primary state agencies:

For Solid and Hazardous Waste (MDEQ):

Official Website:

• www.mdeq.ms.gov

• Navigate to: Environmental Compliance & Enforcement > Waste Management

Key Resources:

• Mississippi Solid Waste Management Regulations

• Hazardous Waste Regulations (Title 11, Part 4)

• Generator guidelines and fact sheets

• Permit application forms

• Compliance assistance documents

Contact MDEQ:

• Phone: (601) 961-5171

• Email: Waste@mdeq.ms.gov

• Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

• Address: 515 East Amite Street, Jackson, MS 39201

Specific MDEQ Divisions:

• Hazardous Waste: (601) 961-5171

• Solid Waste: (601) 961-5062

• Recycling Programs: (601) 961-5171

For Medical and Infectious Waste (MSDH):

Official Website:

• www.msdh.ms.gov

• Navigate to: Public Health > Environmental Health > Medical Waste

Key Resources:

• Medical Waste Management Rules and Regulations

• Infectious waste handling guidelines

• Transporter licensing requirements

• Treatment facility permits

• Sharps disposal guidance

Contact MSDH:

• Phone: (601) 576-7400

• Bureau of Environmental Health: (601) 576-7689

• Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

• Address: 570 East Woodrow Wilson Drive, Jackson, MS 39216

Additional Resources:

Federal Regulations:

• EPA RCRA Regulations: epa.gov/rcra

• OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard: osha.gov

Where to Find Specific Rules:

Hazardous Waste:

• Mississippi Administrative Code, Title 11, Part 4

Medical Waste:

• Mississippi State Board of Health Rules and Regulations

• Medical Waste Management Section

• Available through MSDH website

Local Ordinances:

• Contact your county health department

• City/county may have additional requirements

• Check with local waste management authority

Getting Help Understanding Regulations:

MDEQ Compliance Assistance:

• Free technical assistance for businesses

• Waste minimization consultations

• Training workshops and webinars

• Phone: (601) 961-5062

MSDH Environmental Health:

• Medical waste management guidance

• Facility inspection scheduling

• Compliance questions

• Phone: (601) 576-7689

Professional Associations:

• Mississippi Healthcare Association

• Mississippi Manufacturers Association

• Local chamber of commerce environmental committees

Staying Updated on Changes:

• Subscribe to MDEQ email updates

• Follow MDEQ on social media

• Attend annual compliance training

• Join industry association mailing lists

• Partner with licensed waste management company

Document Downloads:

• Most regulations available as free PDF downloads

• Print copies available upon request

• Some forms require Mississippi.gov account

For Questions:

• Call appropriate agency directly

• Email specific questions with facility details

• Request on-site compliance assistance visit

• Consult with licensed waste management provider

Key Takeaways: Mississippi Waste Management Compliance Checklist

Immediate Actions (This Week):

• Determine your waste generator classification (VSQG, SQG, or LQG)

• Verify you're using MDEQ/MSDH licensed transporters

• Check that all waste containers are properly labeled

• Review sharps container placement and fill levels

• Confirm manifest records are complete and organized

Short-Term Goals (This Month):

• Conduct employee training on waste segregation

• Obtain or verify EPA ID number (if SQG or LQG)

• Implement automated review request system

• Schedule waste audit to identify cost savings

• Organize 3 years of manifest documentation for potential audit

Long-Term Strategy (This Quarter):

• Develop comprehensive waste management plan

• Evaluate current waste management provider performance

• Implement waste minimization/P2 strategies

• Establish e-waste recycling program

• Consider partnering with professional waste management service

Conclusion: Navigating Mississippi's Waste Regulations Successfully

Compliance with Mississippi's waste management regulations protects your organization from costly fines, legal liability, and environmental damage. Whether you're managing hazardous chemicals, medical waste, or general solid waste, understanding MDEQ and MSDH requirements is essential.

Three Critical Success Factors:

1. Know Your Classification: Accurately identify your generator status and applicable regulations

2. Document Everything: Maintain complete records of all waste generation, transport, and disposal

3. Partner with Experts: Work with licensed, experienced waste management professionals

By staying informed, maintaining proper documentation, and partnering with qualified waste management services like SD Med Waste, Mississippi businesses and healthcare providers can achieve full regulatory compliance while protecting public health and the environment.

Ready to ensure your Mississippi facility is fully compliant? Contact SD Med Waste for a free compliance assessment and learn how professional waste management services can reduce your risk, lower costs, and provide peace of mind.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Mississippi waste management regulations. It is not legal advice. For specific compliance questions, consult MDEQ, MSDH, or a qualified environmental attorney.