Having established the components of the infectious waste
stream, we can now consider the various methods that are
used in its treatment. The numerous advantages associated
with incineration (Table 1), and its long history as an effective
method of waste management, have led to its worldwide
use as the preferred means of treating and disposing
of infectious waste.The process converts combustible waste
into residual ash and gases, the latter being vented to the
atmosphere.This time-tested method inactivates all biological
materials, and is particularly useful in the treatment of
pathological waste and sharps, as these components of the
waste stream are rendered unrecognizable and unusable.
However, new emission standards to reduce the potential
air pollution from incinerators have resulted in an enormous
increase in their operating costs. As a result, many
infectious waste generators are turning to alternative treatment
technologies and/or simply discontinuing the use
of on-site incinerators. For example, in 1990, there were
approximately 150 infectious waste incinerators in operation
at hospitals, nursing homes, laboratories, and commercial
facilities in New York State. However, by 2000, there
were only eight incinerators in use at healthcare sites within
the state.