Types of Biomedical Waste Disposal Solutions

The regulations for medical waste disposal were quite lax before the 1980s. However, when the AIDS epidemic started to spread, it spurred the need for strict regulations concerning the disposal of used medical supplies. Waste disposal is very important, especially so for medical supplies because they are hazardous materials and can be contaminated with diseases or dangerous pathogens.

Though strict rules and regulations for medical waste disposal have been set, it is important to take additional steps to ensure that they do not have any impact on the environment. Not every biomedical waste is disposed in the same way, and currently, various waste disposal solutions have been introduced along with the traditional practices, which can help to get rid of the medical waste safely.

Biomedical Waste Disposal Solutions

There are several ways to dispose of biomedical waste. However, owing to the highly sensitive component, it is important to do it in such a way that it neither affects the environment nor harms human beings. Every state follows specific techniques of waste disposal. Some of them are described here:

Incineration

Biomedical wastes can be taken care of by incinerating them. The major benefits of this process are that it is very easy, simple, and quick. It is not only effective in removing the waste completely but also highly efficient in safely removing any microorganisms that are present on such materials. However, emissions from burning such hazardous materials can be particularly dangerous. Though some states prefer the incineration technique, however, the materials must be reviewed and determined to be safe for burning.

Autoclaving

Autoclaving is another process by which biomedical wastes can be disposed of. Instead of incineration, this process, which involves steam sterilization, simply introduces very hot steam for a certain amount of time. Once the entire process is done, all the microorganisms are destroyed. This method is particularly effective as it has several benefits. Firstly, the costs are much compared to other methods, and secondly, it does not pose any personal health risks. Although it is not viable to dispose of certain biomedical waste via autoclaving, approximately 90% of them can be sanitized in this way before they are sent to a landfill.

Thermal Elimination

This is one of the best biomedical waste disposal solutions in modern times. This process treats the regulated medical waste by raising its temperature to 350-400 degrees for nearly 2 hours. This ensures that all the bacteria and viruses are destroyed and the plastic pieces are melted down into a block that is safe to be tossed in the trash bin without the risk of contamination or the dangers of spreading viruses and diseases. They are efficient, economical, and convenient for use in all places. This state-of-the-art product is also compliant in all states.

Chemical Treatment

In the case of liquid waste, the most common method of biomedical waste disposal is chemical disinfection. Chlorine is the most preferred choice to execute this process. It is introduced to the liquid waste so that the microorganisms and pathogens could be destroyed and killed. Chemical disposal can be applied to solid wastes as well, though they should be ground first to ensure maximum decontamination. The liquid waste when decontaminated is usually disposed of into the sewer system.

Conclusion

All of the above mention techniques have certain pros and cons. However, depending on state compliances and other feasibility factors, the best waste disposal solution can vary from state to state. Though incineration is the most common practice, it might not be the most advantageous one. Autoclaving is perhaps a safer option as compared to incineration, as steam is not harmful. The thermal elimination process, on the other hand, has no hazardous emissions, and neither are they too expensive. Furthermore, the fact this process works for most of the biomedical waste is also advantageous. Chemical treatment is mostly used for liquid wastes.

Sarah K, a professional writer who share interests in different creative niches. Her ideas and tips towards such niches have contributed to the online community.