The distribution of billions of at-home COVID-19 tests has resulted in many households possessing kits that have reached or passed their expiration dates. Proper disposal requires separating the waste components before tossing these kits. This guidance focuses specifically on how to safely and effectively discard at-home COVID-19 tests that have expired but have never been opened or used.
Differentiating Expired and Used Test Waste
A crucial distinction exists between disposing of an unused, expired test and a test used to collect a biological sample. A used test contains a nasal swab or saliva specimen considered biohazardous waste, even if the result was negative. However, an expired kit that remains sealed and unused does not contain biological material and is therefore not classified as Regulated Medical Waste (RMW).
The components of an unused kit are packaging, a chemical buffer solution, and plastic instruments. Federal and state health guidelines advise that these unused, expired kits can be disposed of in the regular household trash stream. This classification simplifies the process significantly, removing the need for specialized medical waste collection.
Step-by-Step Disposal of Unused Components
Before discarding, check the manufacturer’s website or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) list to see if the expiration date for your specific test lot has been extended. If the test is confirmed expired, the various parts of the kit should be managed separately. The solid components, such as the testing cassette, the unused sterile swab, and any plastic wrapping, should be consolidated. Place these items into a single, sealed plastic bag before placing the bag into your main trash receptacle.
Managing the Buffer Solution
The liquid buffer solution, typically contained in a small vial or tube, requires a careful approach. This solution is mostly saline but includes stabilizing agents and sometimes a biocide or preservative such as sodium azide or ProClin 300. Although the concentration of these chemicals is extremely low, avoid pouring the liquid down any drain.
Instead, the liquid should be absorbed using an inert material, such as a paper towel or cotton ball, directly inside the vial or a small plastic bag. Once the liquid is fully absorbed, seal the bag tightly and include it with the other solid components in the household trash. This method safely contains the chemical components and prevents accidental spillage.
Safety Guidelines for Handling Test Kits
Handling the liquid buffer solution requires a basic level of caution, even though its chemical composition is not highly hazardous. Wear disposable gloves when disassembling the kit to prevent potential skin or eye irritation from contact with the buffer solution. If the liquid splashes onto the skin or into the eyes, immediately rinse the affected area with water.
A significant safety concern is preventing accidental ingestion, especially by young children or pets, as the small vials may resemble eye drops or other medicines. While the amount of toxic preservatives like sodium azide is minimal, ingestion can still cause irritation. After disposal, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, and ensure the sealed waste bag is placed in a secure location out of reach of children.
Navigating Local Waste Management Variations
While federal and state guidance generally directs unused, expired tests to the regular trash, local municipalities may have specific rules that affect disposal. Consult your city or county waste management website for any regulations specific to your area. Some local ordinances may have specific guidelines for the disposal of small amounts of household chemical waste, which could include the buffer solution.
Local guidelines may direct residents to separate the cardboard packaging and instruction leaflets for recycling. If your local waste service accepts the materials, the outer cardboard box can be broken down and placed in the recycling bin. However, all plastic components and the sealed bag containing the buffer solution must go into the non-recyclable household waste stream.