What is the purpose of biohazard bags in the laboratory?

The purpose of biohazard bags in the laboratory is to contain and dispose of biohazardous waste safely. These bags are specifically designed to hold materials that may be contaminated with pathogens or other biological hazards, ensuring that the waste is securely contained to prevent any exposure to personnel and the environment. By using biohazard bags, laboratories adhere to safety protocols that minimize the risk of infection and ensure proper disposal according to regulations governing hazardous waste.

In contrast, other options do not align with the intended use of biohazard bags. For instance, recycling glass materials typically requires specialized containers that are separate from biohazardous waste management. Similarly, regular laboratory waste does not necessitate the same level of containment and safety protocols, and thus should be disposed of in appropriate containers that do not compromise safety measures used for biohazardous materials. Lastly, while protecting equipment from contamination is important in laboratory settings, it is not the primary function of biohazard bags, which focus specifically on the safe disposal of biohazardous items.