Start practicing

Infection Control · single question

Which of the following is an INCORRECT method of handling scrap dental amalgam?

  1. Storing it in a labeled, covered container for recycling
  2. Placing it in a red biohazard container
  3. Installing an ISO 11143-compliant amalgam separator
  4. Using chairside traps and vacuum filters to capture particles
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Placing it in a red biohazard container

  • A. Correct practice: store contact and non-contact amalgam in labeled, covered containers and send it to a licensed recycler.
  • B. CORRECT — this is INCORRECT practice. Scrap amalgam is a MERCURY-containing hazardous waste (an environmental/EPA issue), NOT a biohazard. Red biohazard bags are for regulated medical waste and are typically incinerated — incinerating amalgam VAPORIZES mercury directly into the atmosphere. Amalgam must never go in the red bag, the regular trash, the sharps container, or down the drain.
  • C. Correct practice: the EPA Dental Amalgam Rule requires ISO 11143-compliant separators achieving at least 95% removal efficiency.
  • D. Correct practice: chairside traps and vacuum line filters are required capture points, and their contents are recycled.

Note: Amalgam waste = EPA/environmental. Blood-soaked gauze and extracted teeth with amalgam = different streams. Never incinerate amalgam.

Practice Infection Control questions Infection Control study notes

More Infection Control practice questions