There is a vast network of Health Care Institutions in India. Hospital waste—including body parts, tissues, blood, fluids, and contaminated materials—must be carefully managed to avoid infections and ensure environmental safety. Proper collection, segregation, transportation, treatment, and final disposal are essential.

Process Steps

1. Waste Collection
2. Segregation
3. Transportation and Storage
4. Treatment & Disposal
5. Transport to Final Disposal Site
6. Final Disposal
7. Pharmaceuticals
8. Pressurized Containers

Biomedical Waste Treatment and Disposal

Health care waste is a complex mix. With proper planning, segregation, and technology, the volume and risks associated with this waste can be reduced significantly.

Incineration Technology

This high-temperature thermal process converts waste into inert materials and gases. Incinerators used include multiple hearth type, rotary kiln, and controlled air types—all with primary and secondary combustion chambers and refractory lining.

Non-Incineration Technology

These include thermal, chemical, irradiation, and biological methods. Most facilities use thermal and chemical treatments to disinfect biomedical waste and meet compliance regulations.

Autoclaving

• The autoclave functions like a pressure cooker, using high-temperature steam.
• Steam penetrates waste, destroying microorganisms.
• Three types: Gravity, Pre-vacuum, and Retort type autoclaves.

The Gravity type uses natural air evacuation, operating at 121°C and 15 psi for 60–90 minutes. Pre-vacuum type uses pumps for faster cycles (30–60 minutes) at 132°C. Retort autoclaves handle higher temperature and pressure. This method is ideal for biotechnology waste, sharps, soiled waste, etc., rendering them harmless for landfilling.

Microwave Irradiation

• Uses high-frequency waves to generate heat from within the waste.
• This internal heat destroys all pathogens effectively.

Chemical Methods

• 1% hypochlorite solution is commonly used for disinfecting biomedical waste.

Plasma Pyrolysis

This advanced method converts organic and hazardous waste into useful by-products. The intense heat from plasma arcs (up to 1200°C) breaks down waste into CO, H₂, and hydrocarbons. These gases are safely incinerated, making this method eco-friendly and efficient.