US · guidance
CMS SOM App. U, Tag R202
§403.742(a) Standard: Buildings […The RNHCI must have the
following:]
(1) Procedures for the proper storage and disposal of trash.
Interpretive Guidelines: §403.742(a)(1)
The term trash refers to common garbage as well as biohazardous waste. The storage
and disposal of trash must be in accordance with Federal, State and local laws and
regulations (i.e., EPA, OSHA, CDC, State environmental, health and safety regulations).
Additionally, under §403.748(b)(1), RNCHIs are required to have a policy and procedure
which addresses the provision of sewage and waste disposal in the event that staff and
patients are required to evacuate or shelter in place.
Determine which citation would be most appropriate, R202 or E-0015. If concerns arise,
contact your Physical Environment subject expert or the CMS Location for additional
guidance.
Survey Procedures:
• Verify the RNHCI has policies and procedures for the proper storage and
disposal of trash.
• During the tour, ensure that patients do not have access to soiled diapers, linens,
bandages, or any other potentially infectious materials. (These materials must be
handled in a manner that prevents leakage from containers by exposure to the
general environment).
• During the tour, ensure patients, caregivers, staff and visitors are protected from
hazardous waste materials or potentially infectious materials.
History
Rev. 239; Issued: 04-24-26; Effective: 04-24-26; Implementation: 04-24-26
Provenance
- Source
- cms.gov
- Retrieved
- 2026-07-22
- Edition
- som-2026-07-22
- Content hash
bec3102e5fd7145ba535d4111283c9c9e7b7cf63d6366540b16a5b6c15222d27
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