Healthcare facilities are the second largest industry creating landfill waste, just under the food industry, and amounting to 6,600 metric tons per day. That means 2-5 million tons of waste per year or 29-42 pounds per patient each day. This medical waste includes sharps such as needles, scalpels, syringes, broken glass, as well as unused or expired pharmaceuticals and hazardous substances like sterilants, mercury, and blood. All of these items must be safely disposed of, and businesses are legally bound to do that properly. Some waste is considered hazardous because it is infectious, toxic, or radioactive. For these items, there are two main methods for disposal: steam autoclave or incineration, both of which must be carefully taken care of. With this much waste, creating effective medical waste disposal systems is essential. Efficient systems not only benefit humanity but also help to lower healthcare costs, reduce hazards, and lower energy cost.
infographic by: amergydisposal.com
