| Title | Findings on an assessment of small-scale incinerators for health-care waste |
| Publication Type | Literature Review |
| Year of Publication | 2004 |
| Authors | Batterman, S |
| Pagination | 65 p. : 10 fig., 13 tab. |
| Date Published | 2004-01-01 |
| Publisher | World Health Organization (WHO) |
| Place Published | Geneva, Switzerland |
| Keywords | best practices, disposal, hazardous wastes, health care, incineration, sdisan, small-scale activities, waste management |
| Abstract | This report provides an analysis of low cost small-scale incinerators used to dispose of health-care waste in developing countries, specifically sharps waste (used and possibly infected syringes and needles). The report includes a situation analysis, a "best practices" guide to small-scale incineration, a screening level health risk assessment for ingestion and inhalation exposure to dioxin-like compounds, and other information related to the operation and evaluation of the incineration option for health-care waste. The situation analysis documents the need for adequate and safe disposal. Quantities of sharps waste generated monthly range from a few kg at remote clinics, to hundreds or possibly thousands of kg at central hospitals, to approximately 1 000 tons world-wide during vaccination campaigns. With improper disposal, syringes and needles may be scavenged and reused, leading to large numbers of people becoming infected with hepatitis, AIDS and other diseases. To avoid these serious health problems, international agencies promote the use of low-cost small-scale incinerators. Small-scale incineration can only be a transitional means of disposal for health-care waste. The analysis in this report shows significant problems regarding the siting, operation, maintenance and management of incinerators. While uncertainties are high, emissions of toxic and persistent compounds from incinerators may result in human exposure at levels associated with adverse health risks. Although not researched extensively in this report, the cost-effectiveness of incineration does not appear to be favourable over autoclaving in developing countries. Several low cost non-incineration technologies suitable for small quantities of waste in remote areas are demonstrated. |
| Notes | Bibliography: p. 51-53 |
| Custom 1 | 343 |
| Citation Key | 57598 |
