Code E: Disposal

This page outlines disposal requirements under the Research code of practice

127.    Processes should be in place to inform donors how their tissue will be disposed of after use. The HT Act permits disposal of surplus tissue as waste.

128.    The HTA recognises that what is sensitive and what is feasible at local level needs to be taken into account. It is good practice for human tissue to be bagged separately from clinical waste. It is not necessary for each tissue sample to be bagged and disposed of individually.

129.    Establishments may have collections of existing holdings that are considered to be valuable for teaching or possible future research. They should review the usefulness of these collections on a regular basis and, where items are found not to be of value, they should be disposed of sensitively and respectfully, and the details documented.

130.    The HTA has issued separate guidance on the sensitive handling of pregnancy remains, which is available on our website.