Why not continue using on-site incinerators for medical waste disposal?
Incinerators can be used to burn medical wastes, and have, in fact, historically been the on site treatment choice for most health care facilities. However, rising environmental concerns and corresponding increases in regulations are making incineration of medical waste an unattractive option. The EPA’s proposed rules for medical waste combustors are targeted to control the emission from both existing and new sources. The pollutants affected are particulate, SO2 NOx, carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen chloride (HCl), dioxins, furans, lead, cadmium, and mercury. If combustion is used, you can expect dry sorbant injection, fabric filter, carbon injection, or tighter combustion controls for temperature and retention time. In addition to the Clean Air Act’s profound effect on the operation of incinerators, the telltale smokestack, plume, and odor identify the incenerator’s location, and also create a negative image that may raise public reaction.
