Historical context: this article was first published in March 2020, when healthcare organisations were preparing for a possible increase in infectious waste during the COVID-19 crisis.
The pandemic highlighted the importance of contingency planning for infectious healthcare waste. A sudden rise in protective equipment and other disposable materials can put pressure on internal storage, collection schedules, transport and external treatment capacity.
On-site non-incineration treatment can be one part of a resilience strategy. Sterilwave combines shredding and microwave heating in a closed process. Model selection must be based on measured volumes, composition, peak loads and site conditions. Manufacturer performance and capacity claims still require validation within the intended operating envelope.
A responsible implementation also covers waste acceptance, biological safety, the occupational risk assessment, operator training, maintenance, process records, permit requirements and the classification and destination of the treated material.
SimpleComply supports healthcare organisations from waste-stream analysis and business case to financing or leasing, installation, validation, maintenance and permit application support.
