Massachusetts Funeral Director Practice Exam

What is the proper way to dispose of broken glass in a funeral service setting?

1. Shove it into a regular trash bag

2. Wrap it in paper and throw it away

3. Use a sharps container or throw it away

4. Leave it for custodial staff to handle

The correct answer is: Use a sharps container or throw it away

The correct approach to disposing of broken glass in a funeral service setting involves using a sharps container. This method is essential because a sharps container is specifically designed to handle materials that pose a significant risk of injury due to sharp edges. Broken glass can easily cause cuts or lacerations, so it is crucial to contain it securely to prevent harm to anyone who might come into contact with it. Using a sharps container ensures that the glass is not only safely contained but also disposed of according to regulatory standards, which often require materials that can cause injury to be handled in a designated manner. This practice aligns with safety protocols and maintains a safe environment for both staff and clients in a sensitive setting like a funeral home. Other disposal methods, such as placing broken glass in a regular trash bag or wrapping it in paper, do not provide adequate protection and increase the risk of injury during handling. Leaving it for custodial staff also places an unnecessary burden on them and may violate safety regulations. Proper disposal mitigates these risks and upholds professional standards in the funeral service industry.