The reduction in the use of incinerators and the limitations
on the application of autoclaves have created a new
industry – alternative medical waste treatment systems.
While these systems vary in their treatment capacity, the
extent of automation, and overall volume reduction, all
alternative technologies utilize one or more of the following
methods: (1) heating the waste to a minimum of 90–95°C
by means of microwaves, radio waves, hot oil, hot water,
steam, or superheated gases; (2) exposing the waste to
chemicals such as sodium hypochlorite (household bleach)
or chlorine dioxide; (3) subjecting the waste to heated
chemicals; (4) irradiating the infectious waste with ionizing
sources. Each of these methods has its own advantages and
disadvantages, which must be considered when selecting a
treatment system for use by any generator of infectious
waste (see Table 1).